An automatic syringe for coronary occlusion in long-term collateralization studies

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Animal Physiology
• Medical Device Engineering

Background:

• Chronic studies of coronary artery disease require precise and repeatable occlusions.
• Existing methods for inducing coronary artery occlusions in animal models can be labor-intensive and lack automation.
• The need for a reliable, portable device for long-term animal research is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel portable apparatus for automated, repeated coronary artery occlusions.
• To detail the device's capabilities for long-term chronic studies in large animals.
• To highlight the device's features for precise control and safety.

Main Methods:

• Development of a battery-operated, backpack-carried device.
• Utilizing a motorized syringe controlled by a digital-programmable timing circuit.
• Incorporation of adjustable occlusion durations (10s to 3min) and intervals (14s to 16h).
• Integration of a fail-safe circuit with a pressure-relief valve.

Main Results:

• The apparatus enables automated, repeated coronary artery occlusions.
• Device operates for extended periods, performing up to 450 occlusions per battery charge.
• Adjustable pressure up to 1,000 mmHg and programmable timing ensure experimental flexibility.
• Fail-safe mechanism enhances safety by preventing prolonged occlusions.

Conclusions:

• The described portable apparatus offers a significant advancement for long-term chronic studies involving coronary artery occlusions in animals.
• The device provides automated, precise, and safe control over occlusion parameters.
• This innovation facilitates more robust and reproducible cardiovascular research in preclinical models.