A versatile intracorporeal ventricular assist device based on the thoratec VAD system

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Engineering
• Biomedical Devices
• Mechanical Circulatory Support

Background:

• Extended support durations with paracorporeal ventricular assist devices highlight the need for implantable solutions.
• Current implantable left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) are often large and pulsatile.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a small, simple, and versatile intracorporeal ventricular assist device (IVAD) for comprehensive cardiac support.
• To offer an alternative to existing large, implantable pulsatile LVAD systems.

Main Methods:

• Developing an intracorporeal ventricular assist device (IVAD) based on the established Thoratec paracorporeal VAD.
• Utilizing a titanium alloy housing, a Thoralon polyurethane blood pumping sac, and a new sensor for pump status.
• Controlling the IVAD with the compact, portable Thoratec TLC-II driver via a percutaneous pneumatic driveline.

Main Results:

• The IVAD features a simplified design with a smooth, contoured titanium housing and the same blood flow path as its predecessor.
• The device incorporates a novel sensor for detecting pump fullness and emptiness.
• The IVAD's weight (339 g) and volume (252 mL) are approximately half that of current implantable pulsatile electromechanical LVADs.

Conclusions:

• The IVAD's compact size facilitates support for a wide range of patient sizes and anatomies.
• It offers implantable options for left, right, or biventricular support, with an external control unit for easier servicing.
• The IVAD presents a viable alternative to large electromechanical systems, addressing a broader patient population.