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Do we really need pulse? Chronic nonpulsatile and pulsatile blood flow: from the exercise response viewpoints
Artificial Organs
|September 1, 1994
Summary
Both pulsatile and nonpulsatile artificial hearts showed good exercise tolerance in calves. Nonpulsatile biventricular bypass (NPBVB) compensated for oxygen demand effectively, suggesting suitability for implantable artificial hearts.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Evaluating artificial heart performance is crucial for treating heart failure.
- Understanding the physiological response to exercise with artificial circulatory support is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the physiological and hemodynamic responses of pulsatile total artificial hearts (TAH) and nonpulsatile biventricular bypass (NPBVB) systems during exercise.
- To assess the suitability of nonpulsatile pumps for fully implantable artificial hearts.
Main Methods:
- Calves (n=10) were implanted with either a TAH or NPBVB system.
- Animals underwent a standardized exercise protocol (1.5 mph for 15 min).
- Hemodynamic and metabolic parameters were monitored before, during, and after exercise.
Main Results:
- Both TAH and NPBVB systems demonstrated excellent exercise tolerance.
- NPBVB calves increased arteriovenous oxygen difference to meet exercise-induced oxygen demand.
- Norepinephrine response was more pronounced in the NPBVB group.
Conclusions:
- Nonpulsatile pumps are mechanically suitable for implantable artificial hearts due to their size, efficiency, and lack of a compliance chamber.
- NPBVB systems effectively manage physiological demands during exercise.
- Further research into nonpulsatile artificial heart technology is warranted.