A feedback system to control blood flow in dog lung lobes

We have developed an electromechanical feedback system to control blood flow to the lower left lung lobe of dogs. Blood flow is measured with an electromagnetic flowmeter. The feedback system compares the blood flow signal to an adjustable reference voltage and causes a motor to turn. The direction of motor rotation depends on the relative magnitude of the flow signal and the reference. The motor pushes the plunger of a syringe that is attached to a balloon in the right pulmonary artery. Inflation of the balloon causes increased blood flow to the lower left lobe. We have used the system to control lobe blood flow in three dogs.