A practical and less invasive total cavopulmonary connection sheep model.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Medical Device Development
• Animal Models

Background:

• Total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) is a complex surgical procedure.
• Existing animal models for testing total cavopulmonary assist (CPA) devices may be invasive.
• A less invasive model is needed for effective CPA device evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a less invasive sheep model for total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC).
• To facilitate the testing of total cavopulmonary assist (CPA) devices.
• To establish a reproducible and less traumatic surgical approach.

Main Methods:

• A right fourth intercostal lateral thoracotomy was performed in thirteen sheep.
• Two series of procedures were conducted, involving extracardiac conduit (ECC) placement and various anastomosis techniques.
• Hemodynamic parameters including central venous pressure and pulmonary artery pressure were monitored.

Main Results:

• Successful creation of the TCPC sheep model in 11 out of 13 sheep.
• Significantly increased central venous pressure and decreased pulmonary artery/arterial blood pressure were observed.
• The model demonstrated reduced trauma, no cardiopulmonary bypass, and minimal blood loss.

Conclusions:

• An acute, less invasive TCPC sheep model was successfully developed.
• This model offers a less traumatic approach with reduced complications for CPA device testing.
• The established model facilitates future long-term evaluation of total cavopulmonary assist devices.