Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026
16:40
A New Single Chamber Implantable Defibrillator with Atrial Sensing: A Practical Demonstration of Sensing and Ease of Implantation
Published on: February 28, 2012
Development and early testing of a simple subcutaneous counterpulsation device
Steven C Koenig1, Paul A Spence, George M Pantalos
1Departments of Bioengineering and Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
ASAIO Journal (American Society for Artificial Internal Organs : 1992)
|August 3, 2006
Summary
A new superficial counterpulsation device (CPD) shows promise for extended cardiac support. This device improved blood flow and reduced heart workload in feasibility studies, offering a potential alternative to short-term intra-aortic balloon pumps.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Research
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Intra-aortic balloon pumps offer short-term cardiac support but have limitations.
- A novel superficial counterpulsation device (CPD) is under development for extended myocardial recovery.
- The CPD aims to provide prolonged circulatory assistance via a less invasive approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the acute hemodynamic effects of a novel superficial counterpulsation device (CPD).
- To assess the feasibility of using the subclavian artery as an anastomosis site for the CPD.
- To determine the potential for extended hemodynamic support and myocardial recovery using the CPD.
Main Methods:
- A feasibility study involving eight calves with induced cardiac dysfunction was conducted.
- Hemodynamic parameters including aortic pressure, ventricular pressure, coronary flow, and stroke volume were measured.
- A cadaver study assessed the anatomical fit of the CPD for implantation in the human subclavian fossa.
Main Results:
- The CPD significantly augmented aortic diastolic pressure.
- The device reduced left ventricular peak systolic and aortic ejection pressures by up to 18%.
- Diastolic coronary flow increased by up to 21%, and stroke volume increased by up to 12%.
Conclusions:
- The superficial counterpulsation device (CPD) demonstrates acute hemodynamic benefits in a preclinical model.
- The subclavian artery is a viable anastomosis site, though device size adjustment is needed for optimal anatomical fit.
- The CPD offers a promising, less invasive approach for extended cardiac support and potential myocardial recovery.
