Long-term cardiopulmonary support with a composite artificial heart-lung system

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Research
• Respiratory Support

Background:

• Current cardiopulmonary support (CPS) systems face limitations for long-term use.
• A durable and antithrombogenic ventricular assist device (VAD) has been clinically validated.
• A novel compact artificial lung (AL) design addresses serum leakage and anticoagulation challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and evaluate a novel, long-term cardiopulmonary support (CPS) system.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of a combined VAD and artificial lung system in chronic animal experiments.
• To determine the system's potential as a bridge to lung or heart-lung transplantation.

Main Methods:

• A novel CPS system integrating a pneumatic VAD and a compact AL was developed.
• Chronic animal experiments were conducted using three goats (28-36 kg) on total CPS via venoarterial bypass.
• Hemodynamic parameters, gas exchange, and coagulation factors were monitored without systemic anticoagulation, using only heparinized fluid infusion.

Main Results:

• One goat survived for 2 weeks on total CPS without device-related issues.
• Sustained blood flow (3.2-4.5 L/min), O2 transfer (120-220 ml/min), and CO2 removal (60-210 ml/min) were achieved.
• No significant changes in platelet count or coagulation factors were observed, indicating good hemocompatibility.

Conclusions:

• The novel CPS system demonstrates feasibility for long-term application.
• The system effectively supports cardiopulmonary function in a chronic animal model.
• This technology holds potential as a bridge to lung or heart-lung transplantation.