Development of a completely implantable total artificial heart

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Anatomic fit is crucial for implantable total circulatory support systems.
• Previous designs faced challenges in achieving optimal spatial integration within the thorax.
• Engineering and physiological requirements necessitate a well-defined anatomical interface.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a three-dimensional anatomic model of the adult thorax for implantable device design.
• To conceptualize and define the configuration of a one-piece, implantable total artificial heart (E4T system).
• To validate the anatomic fit and assess potential compression of cardiovascular structures by the E4T system.

Main Methods:

• Construction of a 3D anatomic model using data from cadavers, radiographs, CT, NMR, and cineangiograms.
• Definition and sizing of the E4T system, including actuator placement and port design.
• Implantation of the E4T model in three human cadavers, followed by NMR imaging for validation.

Main Results:

• Identification of critical anatomical information including valve, chamber, and vessel locations.
• Definition of the E4T system with a hydraulic actuator between ventricles, designed for 8 L/min output at 120 beats/min.
• Excellent anatomic fit observed in all cadaver models, with NMR imaging showing no compression of natural internal structures.

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D anatomic model facilitated the design of the E4T total artificial heart.
• The E4T system demonstrates excellent implantability and fit within the thoracic cavity.
• The design effectively avoids compression of critical cardiovascular structures, validating its feasibility.