The circulatory assist device program at University Medical Center. Clinical training and technical support

A great deal of preparation and coordination is necessary for participation in the investigational use of temporary circulatory assist devices. The use of engineers for technical support as well as for programs coordination has been very useful in the ongoing evaluation of our device performance. It is hoped that the early studies conducted today will lead to improvements in the devices and the eventual production of permanent, totally implantable circulatory assist devices. As these devices continue to develop, it is expected that the biomedical engineer will be able to continue to participate significantly in the development process.