Current Status of Cardiopulmonary Perfusionists in the Republic of Korea

Kim, Won Gon

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The primary responsibility of a perfusionist is to operate the heart-lung bypass machine during open heart surgery, which is vital for the successful operative outcome. However, despite the perfusionist's crucial role on the cardiac surgical team, no relevant studies have not yet been conducted in our country. In this regard, this study was performed about the current status of perfusionists in Korea with comparative analysis on the certification and education system of perfusionists in foreign countries. MATERIAL AND METHOD: We analyzed the demographic data on the Korean perfusionists conducted in 1994 and 2003, with comparison of recent data on the perfusionists of the nineteen foreign countries. RESULT AND CONCLUSION: Although all agree that professionalism and responsibility of the perfusionist are essential in conducting a cardiac procedure and bringing about successful outcome, the formally approved training and certification system for perfusionists have not yet been established in Korea. Adequate measures should be done as soon as possible in order to try to obtain the adequate recognition of the profession.