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The DeBakey ventricular assist device: current status in 1997.
Artificial Organs
|January 5, 2000
Summary
The DeBakey ventricular assist device (VAD) shows promise for long-term use, demonstrating adequate performance and biocompatibility in calf studies. Improvements in design and materials enhance its potential as an implantable cardiac prosthesis.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Devices
- Implantable Prosthetics
Background:
- Development of the DeBakey ventricular assist device (VAD) began in 1993.
- Material conversion to titanium alloy and waterproof pump package for long-term intracorporeal circulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate the performance and biocompatibility of the DeBakey VAD.
- Assess long-term support capabilities in an animal model.
Main Methods:
- Thirteen intrathoracic implantations in calves.
- Utilized straight and subsequently curved cannulas for anatomical fit and flow optimization.
- Monitored survival, flow rates, power consumption, thromboembolism, and plasma free hemoglobin.
Main Results:
- Nine out of thirteen calves survived beyond the perioperative period, supported for 26-93 days.
- Mean flow of 4.4 L/min achieved with 9,900 rpm, requiring an average of 8.8 W power.
- No thromboembolic events observed; plasma free hemoglobin remained below 5 mg/dl post-operatively. Device-related failures included electric interference and drive line issues.
Conclusions:
- The DeBakey VAD exhibits adequate basic performance and biocompatibility.
- Reliable mechanical components and improved electrical parts indicate potential for long-term cardiac prosthesis applications.
- Further modifications to the drive line are recommended to address device-related failures.