Management of the artificial heart driver: a new role for the perfusionist?

The recent success of the first permanent total artificial heart implant has brought to light a possible new role for the perfusionist. The specialized skills necessary to monitor hemodynamic parameters of the drive system for the artificial heart are currently held by a few people with extensive research experience. The skills of an experienced perfusionist are similar to those needed to monitor and operate the drive system. This paper examines the requirements for operating the drive system and the suitability of a perfusionist’s training for performing this function.