Efficiency of the left ventricle assist device Hemopump in cardiac fibrillation

We have examined in sheep the efficiency of the Hemopump during ventricular fibrillation. Circulatory arrest was induced by electrical stimulation and maintained for 30 min. Haemodynamic measurements were recorded continuously and blood samples were taken before, during and after fibrillation to determine total body and myocardial metabolic activity. All hearts were defibrillated successfully after 30 min of fibrillation. During fibrillation, the Hemopump sustained a mean arterial pressure of about 60 mm Hg with a blood flow rate of about 2.3 litre min-1. These perfusion conditions were sufficient for maintenance of aerobic myocardial metabolism, but with a borderline circulatory supply to the total organism.