Development of an intracorporeal Thoratec ventricular assist device for univentricular or biventricular support

There is a need for a small, simple, and versatile intracorporeal ventricular assist device (IVAD) as an alternative to the large implantable electromechanical LVAD systems in current use. Because the basic design of the Thoratec paracorporeal VAD has been demonstrated in over 1,000 patients, weighing from 17 to 144 kg, and for durations up to 515 days including patient discharge (by using the portable driver), we are developing a new intracorporeal version of our VAD. This IVAD has a smooth contoured, polished titanium housing, and maintains the same blood flow path and Thoralon polyurethane blood pumping sac as the paracorporeal VAD. The IVAD is controlled with the Thoratec TLC-II Portable VAD Driver, which is a small briefcase sized, battery powered, pneumatic control unit. Intracorporeal LVADs and/or RVADs are implanted in a preperitoneal position, with a single small (9 mm OD) percutaneous pneumatic driveline for each VAD. The major advantages of the new IVAD design are size and simplicity. The IVAD weight (339 g) and implanted volume (252 ml) are substantially smaller than current implantable electromechanical LVAD systems. Only the small blood pump is implanted, leaving the more complex control unit external, where it can be serviced and replaced. The versatile design is intended for left and/or right heart support in large or small patients. The IVAD in combination with the TLC-II portable driver will be a viable and attractive alternative to large, implanted electromechanical systems.