Clinical experience with the Sarns centrifugal pump

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Mechanical Circulatory Support

Background:

• Sarns centrifugal pumps have been utilized in various cardiac surgical procedures since 1986.
• Experience includes both extracorporeal circulation and cardiac assist device applications.
• Previous studies suggest centrifugal pumps are viable alternatives for circulatory support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical experience and outcomes of using Sarns centrifugal pumps in a diverse patient cohort.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of these pumps in thoracic aorta surgery and postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock.
• To determine the long-term functional benefits for survivors supported by this device.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 72 patients (96 Sarns centrifugal pumps) from October 1986 onwards.
• Application included heparinless bypass for thoracic aorta surgery and univentricular/biventricular cardiac support for cardiogenic shock.
• Patient outcomes, complications, and functional status were meticulously recorded and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Successful heparinless bypass in 14 thoracic aorta surgery patients with 93% survival and no paraplegia.
• For postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock, survival rates were 29% (left ventricular assist) and 13% (biventricular assist).
• Over 5,235 pump-hours, no instances of pump thrombosis were observed, despite high complication rates in critically ill patients.

Conclusions:

• Sarns centrifugal pumps are effective for salvaging patients unable to be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass.
• Partial left ventricular bypass with a centrifugal pump is a preferred method for left ventricular unloading and maintaining aortic perfusion during thoracic aorta surgery.
• Clinical outcomes align with those reported for other centrifugal assist devices, highlighting their utility in critical cardiac care.