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Calcification inside artificial hearts: inhibition by warfarin-sodium
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|May 9, 1980
Summary
Calcium phosphate deposits formed on blood pump sacs in calves. Warfarin-sodium treatment prevented these mineral deposits, suggesting a vitamin K-dependent process is involved.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Device Engineering
- Hematology
Background:
- Elastomeric blood pump sacs are used in mechanical circulatory support.
- Mineral deposition on implanted devices can lead to complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the formation of intracavitary calcium phosphate deposits on blood pump sacs.
- To determine the role of anticoagulation in preventing these deposits.
Main Methods:
- Implantation of smooth, elastomeric blood pump sacs in male calves for 115 to 166 days.
- Observation of mineral deposits on the flexing surfaces of the sacs.
- Comparison of sacs from calves treated with warfarin-sodium versus untreated calves.
Main Results:
- Significant calcium phosphate deposits were observed on blood pump sacs in untreated calves.
- Pump sacs remained largely free of mineral deposits in calves treated with warfarin-sodium for up to 150 days.
- Deposits predominantly occurred on the flexing surfaces of the sacs.
Conclusions:
- The formation of calcium phosphate deposits on elastomeric blood pump sacs appears to be linked to a vitamin K-dependent process.
- Warfarin-sodium treatment may mitigate mineral deposition on blood pump sacs.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms involved.