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Totally implantable intrathoracic ventricular assist device
T V Mussivand1, R G Masters, P J Hendry
1Cardiovascular Devices Division, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ontario, Canada.
The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|January 1, 1996
Summary
A new totally implantable ventricular assist device (EVAD) shows promise for heart failure patients. This electrohydraulic device demonstrated effective function in initial tests, with long-term implantation studies planned.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Devices
- Implantable Technology
Background:
- Development of a totally implantable, intrathoracic electrohydraulic ventricular assist device (EVAD).
- EVAD is intended for permanent use or as a bridge to cardiac transplantation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and functionality of a novel, compact, totally implantable electrohydraulic ventricular assist device.
- To assess the performance of the integrated system, including energy transfer and diaphragm position sensing.
Main Methods:
- A unified system combining a 70-mL blood pump, volume displacement chamber, turbine, electronics, and infrared sensor.
- Transcutaneous energy transfer powers the system and recharges an internal battery.
- Autotuning circuitry optimizes energy transfer efficiency; infrared sensor detects cardiac cycle endpoints.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated in vitro and acute in vivo flow rates exceeding 6 L/min.
- Transcutaneous energy transfer achieved 60%-80% efficiency for power demands of 5-60 W.
- One system achieved over 750 failure-free days in durability testing; acute calf implantation sustained circulation for 96 hours.
Conclusions:
- The developed electrohydraulic ventricular assist device functions effectively as a totally implantable system.
- Initial in vitro and in vivo results support its potential for clinical application.
- Chronic in vivo evaluation is planned to further assess long-term performance and safety.