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Cardiac supporting device using artificial rubber muscle: preliminary study to active dynamic cardiomyoplasty
Yoshiaki Saito1, Yasuyuki Suzuki2, Takeshi Goto3
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Hirosaki University School of Medicine, 5 Zaifu-cho, Hirosaki, Aomori, 036-8562, Japan. yomusai12@yahoo.co.jp.
Summary
This study introduces a novel cardiac support device using pneumatic muscles, offering a promising alternative to dynamic cardiomyoplasty. The device effectively assists circulation, demonstrating feasibility for cardiac support applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Devices
- Surgical Technology
Background:
- Dynamic cardiomyoplasty uses patient skeletal muscle for circulatory support.
- Limitations exist with autologous skeletal muscles in current dynamic cardiomyoplasty techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of a novel wrapped-type cardiac supporting device utilizing pneumatic muscles.
- To overcome limitations associated with autologous skeletal muscles in cardiac support.
Main Methods:
- Employed four pneumatic muscles (Fluidic Muscle, FESTO) driven by compressed air.
- Utilized a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control system for device movement.
- Evaluated device performance in an overflow-type mock circulation system.
Main Results:
- The device demonstrated powerful performance, supporting flow against an 88 mmHg afterload.
- Beating rate and contraction/dilatation timing were precisely controlled via software.
- Achieved maximum ventricular pressure of 187 mmHg and output of 546.5 ml/min at 50 bpm.
Conclusions:
- The pneumatic muscle cardiac support device is effective and feasible.
- Contraction speed modulation is achievable by adjusting proportional gain.
- This technology presents a viable alternative for cardiac support applications.
