In Vitro PET Imaging of a Miniature Ventricular Assist Device.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging
• Cardiovascular Devices

Background:

• Ventricular assist devices (VADs) are critical for patients with advanced heart failure.
• Interactions between VADs and diagnostic imaging modalities require careful evaluation to prevent device malfunction and ensure diagnostic accuracy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the compatibility of the investigational MVAD(®) pump with positron emission tomography (PET) imaging.
• To determine if radiotracer administration affects MVAD(®) pump operation or device components.

Main Methods:

• An in vitro flow-loop study was conducted using the MVAD(®) pump.
• Radiotracers, including (18)F-sodium fluoride and (18)F-FDG, were injected into a closed loop to simulate PET imaging conditions.
• Pump parameters (power consumption, speed, flow rate) and external components were monitored during radiotracer circulation.

Main Results:

• No significant changes in MVAD(®) pump operation or parameters were observed during simulated PET imaging.
• External components, including the controller and batteries, were unaffected by the radiotracers.
• Internal pump components were successfully imaged, with minor obscuration at the impeller site.
• Radiotracer retention within the pump was minimal (<1%) after circulation.

Conclusions:

• PET imaging is a viable diagnostic tool for patients with the MVAD(®) ventricular assist device.
• The study demonstrates the feasibility of direct PET imaging of the MVAD(®) pump.
• PET imaging may offer expanded diagnostic utility beyond infection detection in VAD patients.