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A long-term ventricular assist system
W S Pierce1, A J Snyder, G Rosenberg
1Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey 17033.
The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
|March 1, 1993
Summary
This study developed a tether-free, implantable electric blood pump for circulatory support. Animal trials showed promising results, suggesting potential for a reliable 2-year assist pump for clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Devices
- Implantable Pumps
Background:
- Circulatory support is crucial for patients with heart failure.
- Existing devices often require external connections, posing risks.
- Tether-free solutions are needed for improved patient mobility and reduced complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an implantable, electrically powered, tether-free blood pump.
- To assess the feasibility and performance of the device in animal models.
- To determine the potential for long-term clinical application.
Main Methods:
- Development of a sealed blood pump with a polyurethane sac and polysulfone case.
- Utilized Björk-Shiley Monostrut valves for unidirectional flow.
- Employed a brushless DC motor, pusher plate actuation, and inductive coupling for power transmission.
- Tested the device in 26 animals for circulatory support.
Main Results:
- The pump achieved a flow rate of 8.5 L/min at physiologic pressures.
- Circulatory support was provided to animals for over 1 week, averaging 62 days (longest: 8 months).
- Pump-related issues occurred in 18 animals; biologically related issues in 8.
Conclusions:
- The developed tether-free implantable blood pump shows encouraging results for circulatory support.
- Further refinement may lead to a reliable 2-year assist pump with significant clinical potential.
- This technology could offer a viable alternative to current circulatory support systems.