Characterization of blood microemboli associated with ex vivo left ventricular assist devices in a bovine model

An ex vivo left ventricular assist device (LVAD) model was used in calves to study the production of blood microemboli (BME) and to evaluate possible correlations between constant-pressure filtration (CPF) measurements of flow-resistant BME, light-scattering microemboli detection (LSMD), observable thrombus accumulation, and hematologic markers. Aortic LVAD cannulae were implanted through the chest wall in two calves, and each calf received a series of LVADs, each operating 1-4 days. Blood samples from the LVADs underwent CPF through 20 mu pore filters at 20 mm Hg to produce estimates of occlusive BME concentration. Laser (He-Ne) light was directed through the outflow cannula, and the differentially-scattered light was detected for computer estimation of microemboli size, volume, and frequency. Blood chemistry and coagulation parameters were also analyzed. Removed LVADs were examined with polar coordinate mapping of accumulated perivalvular thrombi. One ventricle produced significantly greater CPF results, LSMD results, and Factor XII levels. During the use of that ventricle, the CPF results increased slowly with time after LVAD connection, while the LSMD results and Factor XII levels increased immediately after connection, followed by a later decrease. This contrast is explainable in terms of the dynamic development of BME strength. The calf model appears useful for the study of thrombogenesis, and the CPF and LSMD methods of BME analysis complement each other, and other measurements.