Perfusion technology focuses on the role of perfusionists, who temporarily replace the functions of the heart and lungs during major surgeries. These specialized professionals use advanced technology to maintain vital organ functions when the heart and lungs are temporarily stopped during surgery.
Overview
The Bachelor of Perfusion Technology (BPerf) is an undergraduate program that equips students with the knowledge and skills required to assist or replace the heart and lung functions in critical surgeries. It covers key areas such as anatomy, biology, and the technology needed to operate heart-lung machines, which are crucial for life-saving surgeries.
Perfusionists are integral to surgeries involving the heart and lungs, as they ensure the patient remains stable by using heart-lung machines during operations, which are often complex and high-risk.
BPerf Course in Nepal
Introduced in 2075/76 by Tribhuvan University, the BPerf course in Nepal is a relatively new addition to the medical education system. Students can pursue this program at institutions like Maharajgunj Medical Campus (TU-affiliated) and BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS), which offer the BPerf course.
As medical technology evolves, particularly in cardiovascular surgeries, perfusionists work alongside other healthcare professionals to perform critical operations. The BPerf program plays an essential role in advancing medical science in Nepal, ensuring that perfusion pressure supports blood flow during major surgeries.
General Information
The BPerf course is a four-year undergraduate program. Students must pass an entrance exam, conducted as part of the Medical Education Common Entrance Exam, to qualify for admission. Only 5 seats are available, with a limited number of scholarships based on academic merit.
This program blends medical science knowledge with practical skills in operating perfusion technology, particularly focusing on the heart and lungs.
Course Structure
The BPerf course is designed to teach students how to operate heart-lung machines during surgeries. It provides both theoretical and practical knowledge related to cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
Some key topics covered include:
- Pathology and Physiology
- Advanced Perfusion Technology
- Pathophysiology
- Human Anatomy
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
Upon completion, students will be trained to assist in perfusion during surgeries and will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed for a career in the field.
Objectives of BPerf
The primary goal of the BPerf course is to train competent perfusionists who can effectively support the medical field. Specific objectives include:
- Providing in-depth knowledge and practical skills to operate heart-lung machines for major transplant surgeries.
- Teaching the use of medical machines during surgery.
- Enhancing problem-solving and communication skills for effective teamwork in surgical settings.
- Educating students on maintaining and troubleshooting heart-lung machines during operations.
Eligibility for BPerf
To be eligible for the BPerf course, applicants must:
- Have completed intermediate education (or equivalent) in the science stream, including Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- Have achieved a minimum of 50% aggregate marks, or 2.4 CGPA or C+ grade.
- Score at least 50% on the entrance exam.
Applicants must take an entrance exam conducted by the respective institution, and those who meet the criteria can submit the necessary documents to proceed with the admission process.
Required documents include:
- Marksheet and proof certificate of SEE/SLC
- Transcript and mark sheet of 10+2 or equivalent
- Citizenship copy
- Entrance exam admit card
Scope of BPerf
The BPerf course is designed to produce specialized perfusion technologists. Graduates can pursue careers in various areas of perfusion, including:
- Pediatric Perfusion
- Cardiac Perfusion
- Transplant Perfusion
- Clinical Perfusion Specialization
Additionally, BPerf graduates can work as educators, trainers, and researchers in the field of perfusion technology.
Fee Structure
The estimated cost for the BPerf course in Nepal ranges from NPR 6,00,000 to NPR 8,00,000. BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences offers the program at Rs 770,000. Students should contact the institution for the most accurate and updated fee structure.
Scholarships
As a new and challenging field in Nepal, the BPerf course has limited seats. A total of 5 seats are available, with 3 designated for scholarships. Of these, 55% are allocated for the general category, and 45% are reserved for the quota category.
Scholarships are awarded based on merit, including academic performance and entrance exam scores.
Conclusion
The Bachelor of Perfusion Technology course is vital for the development of perfusionists in Nepal. It provides a blend of medical knowledge and practical expertise in operating life-saving heart-lung machines during surgeries, contributing significantly to the healthcare sector. With limited seats and a competitive entrance process, students interested in this field must meet the eligibility requirements and succeed in the entrance examination.
