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Updated: Jul 20, 2026
09:40
Induction of Right Ventricular Failure by Pulmonary Artery Constriction and Evaluation of Right Ventricular Function in Mice
Published on: May 13, 2019
Copulsation balloon for right ventricular assistance: preliminary trials
D R Trumble1, C S Park, J A Magovern
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Allegheny General Hospital, and Cardiothoracic Surgery Research, Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
Circulation
|June 3, 1999
Summary
This study tested a temporary right ventricular (RV) assist device using balloon copulsation. The device effectively restored RV stroke volume in pigs with acute RV failure, showing promise for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Management options for acute right ventricular (RV) failure are limited.
- A novel temporary RV assist device utilizing direct RV compression was evaluated.
- The system consists of a silicone balloon delivering pneumatic pulses during cardiac systole.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the preliminary efficacy and safety of a temporary RV assist device in a porcine model of acute RV failure.
- To determine if direct cardiac compression can support pulmonary circulation.
- To evaluate the device's impact on RV function and hemodynamics.
Main Methods:
- In vivo testing was conducted on 6 pigs following induced acute RV failure via coronary ligation.
- Transesophageal echocardiography monitored RV wall motion and stroke volume.
- A silicone balloon device was applied to the RV free wall and activated intermittently.
Main Results:
- Acute RV failure reduced RV stroke volume by 63%.
- The RV assist device restored RV stroke volumes to normal levels (37.8+/-9.2 mL).
- Mean pulmonary artery pressures increased, and RV compression did not worsen tricuspid regurgitation.
Conclusions:
- The pulmonary circulation can be supported short-term using cardiac compression.
- Balloon copulsation is a viable technique for short-term RV failure management.
- Further investigation in long-term models is warranted for this RV assist technology.
