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Development of an implantable artificial lung: challenges and progress.
J B Zwischenberger1, C M Anderson, K E Cook
1Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555, USA.
ASAIO Journal (American Society for Artificial Internal Organs : 1992)
|August 3, 2001
Summary
Researchers are developing an ambulatory artificial lung to support adults with respiratory failure. This device aims to serve as a crucial bridge to lung transplantation and aid post-transplant recovery.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Respiratory Physiology
- Transplantation Medicine
Background:
- Current treatments like dialysis and ventricular assist devices serve as bridges to organ transplantation, but no equivalent exists for lung transplantation.
- Severe respiratory failure necessitates advanced support beyond conventional mechanical ventilation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and construct an ambulatory artificial lung capable of full metabolic support for adults.
- To create a device that can be perfused by the right ventricle, acting as a bridge to lung transplantation.
Main Methods:
- Focus on artificial lung design and integration with the pulmonary circulation.
- Investigating both intracorporeal and paracorporeal placement options for the device.
- Ensuring the device can fully support oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) exchange.
Main Results:
- The study outlines the design goals for an ambulatory artificial lung.
- The device is intended for complete metabolic support, perfusable by the right ventricle.
- Research is exploring optimal device placement and circulatory integration.
Conclusions:
- An ambulatory artificial lung could significantly impact lung transplantation as a bridge therapy.
- The device may also serve as post-lung transplant support or a rescue therapy for severe respiratory failure.
- Further research into artificial lung design and implementation is crucial for clinical application.