The European Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (EBCP) examination is the premier certification for Clinical Perfusionists across Europe. Achieving the European Certified Clinical Perfusionist (ECCP) title signifies that you have met the highest standards of theoretical knowledge, practical skill, and clinical judgment in the field. This definitive guide provides a step-by-step roadmap from eligibility to successful certification, integrating the official syllabus and marking criteria.

EBCP Exam Overview: The Three Pillars of Certification

EBCP Exam Structure

To become an ECCP, you must successfully pass three distinct, sequential examinations:

1. Part I: Written Examination – Tests comprehensive theoretical knowledge.
2. Part II: Practical Examination – Assesses hands-on technical and procedural competency.
3. Part III: Oral Examination – Evaluates clinical reasoning, judgment, and professionalism.

Candidates must pass the Written Exam before proceeding to the Practical and Oral components, which are often taken together and are intrinsically linked.

Step 1 – Conquer the EBCP Written Examination

Format, Questions, and Syllabus

• Format: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Number of Questions: Approximately 180-200 questions.
• Duration: 3 hours.
• Primary Reference: The question database is largely derived from Extracorporeal Circulation in Theory and Practice (Editor: Rudolf J. Tschaut).

Detailed Written Exam Syllabus

The syllabus is organized into 18 core modules. For strategic study, they can be grouped as follows:

Of course. Here is the division of the EBCP exam outline into three logical sections.

Foundational Sciences & Core Principles

This section covers the fundamental knowledge required to understand the “why” and “how” of perfusion, from basic sciences to the core components of the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit.

• History of Perfusion
• Anatomy, Physiology and Interaction of Blood with Artificial Circuits
• Fluid Mechanics and Hypothermia
• Materials and Coating
• Extracorporeal Circulation (Fundamental principles)
• Accidents during Extracorporeal Circulation

---

Clinical Application & Patient Management

This section focuses on the direct application of perfusion principles during cardiac surgery, including patient management, specific surgical interventions, and handling complications.

• Anesthesia, Hemodynamics and Acid-Base Management
• Interventions for Heart Disease
• Myocardial Protection
• Potential Complications of Cardiopulmonary Bypass
• Blood Conservation
• Dialysis and Hemofiltration
• Mechanical Circulatory Support and Pacemaker Use

---

Advanced & Specialized Perfusion Techniques

This section encompasses complex scenarios, specialized patient populations, and emerging technologies that extend beyond routine cardiac surgery.

• Congenital Heart Failure and Treatment
• Special Perfusion Techniques
• Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) Techniques and management
• Tissue Engineering
• Emerging Technology

Step 2 – Demonstrate Mastery in the EBCP Practical Examination

This exam is a direct observation of your skills during a real clinical case.

Practical Exam Guidelines & Scoring with log book.

• Examiner: One ECCP-certified perfusionist, not from your clinic.
• Assessment Tool: The official EBCP scoring sheet (Appendix I) with 22 sub-skills across five domains.

Key Assessment Domains (What They’re Looking For):

1. Patient Evaluation: Reviewing charts and lab results.
2. Equipment Selection: Justifying your choices of hardware and disposables.
3. Set-Up and Priming: Sterility, speed, protocol adherence, and checklist use.
4. Management During Procedure: Initiation, monitoring, responding to changes, managing special techniques (e.g., DHCA, hemofiltration), contingency planning, weaning, and record-keeping.
5. Post-Procedure & Personal Skills: Clean-down, communication, and teamwork.

The “State-of-the-Art” Practical Prep Strategy

• Master the “Why”: Be ready to explain the science behind every action.
• Develop a Pre-Bypass Mantra: Create a personal mental checklist for safety.
• Verbalize Your Actions: Practice narrating your procedure to build fluency for the Oral exam.
• Scenario Drill Relentlessly: Practice responses to equipment failure (e.g., oxygenator failure) and patient crises (e.g., massive air embolism).
• The 2024 EACTS/EACTAIC/EBCP Guidelines update on adult CPB emphasizes enhanced safety and precision through stronger recommendations for neuromonitoring and detailed guidance on the safe application of Minimally Invasive Extracorporeal Circulation (MiECC) techniques.

Step 3 – Excel in the EBCP Oral Examination

The Oral exam is a 30-60 minute viva voce with two examiners. Questions are based directly on their observations during your Practical exam.

Oral Exam Guidelines & Scoring

• Format: 5 questions from two examiners.
• Assessment Tool: The official scoring sheet (Appendix II) evaluating five performance areas per question.

The 5 Performance Areas You Are Scored On:

1. Technical Skills: Explaining the theoretical background for your actions.
2. Understanding and Reflection: Discussing advantages/disadvantages of your choices.
3. Professional Confidence: Assurance and clarity in communication.
4. Responsibility: Understanding your role in the team.
5. Response to Clarification: Handling follow-up questions effectively.

The “State-of-the-Art” Oral Prep Strategy

• Use the STAR/R Method:
  • Situation: Set the context.
  • Task: Define your role.
  • Action: Describe what you did and why.
  • Result: State the outcome.
  • Reflection: This is key. Discuss what you learned or alternative approaches.
• Anticipate the Question Bank: Prepare answers for your equipment choices, crisis management decisions, and contingency plans from your practical case.
• Cultivate the “Three C’s”: Be Calm, Clear, and Confident in your demeanor.

Understanding the EBCP Scoring and Pass Marks

The Scoring Scale (0-10)

• <4: Fail (Below minimum standard)
• =4: Borderline (Met minimum with examiner assistance)
• =5: Pass (Minimum standard accepted)
• =6: Good
• 7-8: Very Good (Target Score)
• 9-10: Excellent

H3: Final Certification Requirements

• A combined final score for the Practical and Oral examinations must be 5.0 or higher.
• A fail in the Written exam requires a re-sit.
• A fail in the Practical/Oral component requires a re-sit within 6 months with a new examiner team.

Your Final Step: The Path to ECCP Title

Success in the EBCP exam requires a synthesis of deep knowledge, flawless practice, and superior judgment. By using this guide as your roadmap—from mastering the written syllabus through to excelling in the practical and oral assessments—you are positioning yourself not just to pass, but to excel.

Embrace the mindset of a reflective practitioner, drill your scenarios, and articulate your reasoning with confidence. You are on the path to joining the ranks of Europe’s top perfusionists as a European Certified Clinical Perfusionist.

---

Disclaimer: For the most current and official information, always refer to the European Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (EBCP) . This course is an independent study aid and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the European Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (EBCP) or the European Certificate in Cardiovascular Perfusion (ECCP).