Related Experiment Videos
Microbially infected thrombus in animals with total artificial hearts
B Y Chiang1, G L Burns, G M Pantalos
1Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84103.
Abstract:
In a retrospective study of 330 animals with total artificial hearts (TAH), 103 (31%) had microbially infected thrombi (MIT). The incidence of MIT approximated 75% in the animals surviving more than 100 days. The most common pathogen isolated from animals with MIT was Pseudomonas. Most thrombi appeared to have originated from valve junctions and connectors. Methods to prevent MIT should be aimed at eliminating thrombus formation by improved design and materials and controlling the route of bacterial colonization. These findings suggest that bacterial interaction with the thrombus, device-related bacterial colonization, host immunomodulation, and gut barrier function after TAH implantation need further study.
Insights
Microbially infected thrombi (MIT) affected 31% of animals with total artificial hearts (TAH), rising to 75% in long-term survivors. Pseudomonas was the most common pathogen, often linked to device components.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Infectious Diseases
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Total artificial hearts (TAH) are critical for end-stage heart failure.
- Thrombus formation and subsequent infection pose significant risks in TAH recipients.
- Understanding microbially infected thrombi (MIT) is crucial for improving TAH outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and characteristics of microbially infected thrombi (MIT) in animals with TAH.
- To identify common pathogens and potential origins of MIT.
- To inform strategies for preventing MIT in TAH patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 330 animals implanted with TAH.
- Examination of explanted devices and associated thrombi for microbial infection.
- Identification of isolated pathogens and analysis of thrombus location.
Main Results:
- 103 out of 330 (31%) animals developed MIT.
- MIT incidence reached approximately 75% in animals surviving over 100 days.
- Pseudomonas was the most frequent pathogen; thrombi often originated from valve junctions and connectors.
Conclusions:
- MIT is a common complication in TAH recipients, particularly with longer survival.
- Preventive strategies should focus on reducing thrombus formation and controlling bacterial entry.
- Further research is needed on host-device-microbe interactions post-TAH implantation.