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Dielectric elastomer actuator-based valveless pump as Fontan failure assist device: introduction and preliminary
Amine Benouhiba1, Armando Walter1, Silje Ekroll Jahren1,2
1Integrated Actuators Laboratory (LAI), École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
Interdisciplinary Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
|March 21, 2024
Summary
A novel bladeless pump using dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) technology shows promise for treating Fontan failure. This impedance-driven device can achieve significant flow rates and adjustable pressures, offering a potential new solution for cavopulmonary assist.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Research
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Fontan circulation is a surgical procedure for single-ventricle congenital heart defects.
- Fontan failure can lead to compromised cardiac function and serious complications.
- There is a need for innovative assistive technologies for Fontan circulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility of a bladeless impedance-driven cavopulmonary assist device using dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) technology.
- To evaluate the performance of this device in an in vitro setting for potential application in Fontan failure.
Main Methods:
- A cavopulmonary assist device utilizing DEA technology and the impedance pump concept was developed.
- The device underwent in vitro testing in a closed-loop system.
- Performance was assessed under controlled conditions.
Main Results:
- The DEA-based pump achieved flow rates up to 1.20 L/min at 4 Hz.
- The device operated across a wide pressure range (<10 to >20 mmHg).
- Flow characteristics were controllable via input signal parameters (frequency, amplitude).
Conclusions:
- The valveless impedance-driven pump with DEA technology shows promise as a cavopulmonary assist device.
- This technology may offer innovative solutions for right heart support.
- Further development could benefit patients with Fontan failure and other heart conditions.
