title: [The perfusion technologist: extracorporeal circulation and hemodialysis].
abstract: In 1812, the French physiologist Le Gallois hypothesized a device for obtaining extracorporeal circulation (ECC), although it wasn't until 1939 that Gibbon described in detail a machine that could substitute both heart and lungs. In 1954, the US Cardiac Surgeon Lillhei invented 'cross circulation', and the era of open heart surgery began. The development of ECC has created a new profession in medicine, the 'Perfusion Technologist' who is not only responsible for ECC, but also for hemodialysis equipment when this is also required. The present review aims to summarize all issues related to this medical profession.
authors.forename: Antonella
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Degani
mesh_terms: D005112:Extracorporeal Circulation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000451:nursing*; D006436:Hemodialysis Units, Hospital; D006801:Humans; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000451:nursing*; D000078329:Workforce