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Findlay implantable two-stage centrifugal pump
P V Moulder1, I S Findlay, R M Zone
1Louisiana State University, New Orleans, USA.
Artificial Organs
|June 1, 1996
Summary
The novel Findlay centrifugal pump, featuring a two-stage mechanism, demonstrates low blood damage and efficient performance. This implantable device shows promise for ventricular assist applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Devices
Background:
- Ventricular assist devices (VADs) are crucial for managing heart failure.
- Improving VAD efficiency and minimizing blood damage are key research areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the performance and hemocompatibility of the novel Findlay centrifugal pump.
- To assess the suitability of the Findlay pump for ventricular assist applications.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication and functional analysis of 26 prototype Findlay centrifugal pumps.
- Hemolysis testing of six pumps over 3.5–5 hours.
- Acute studies in 44 normal dogs using the pump in a ventricular assist system.
Main Results:
- The pump utilizes a unique two-stage mechanism: a lift force pump followed by a shear force pump.
- Demonstrated minimal hemolysis (3.5–5 h) and efficient water pumping (up to 10 L/min).
- In canine studies, blood flow ranged from 1.2 to 4.5 L/min with acceptable hydraulic and mechanical efficiency.
Conclusions:
- The Findlay centrifugal pump exhibits low blood damage and operates efficiently at acceptable speeds.
- Its small size and implantable nature make it a promising candidate for VADs.
- The two-stage design contributes to its overall effectiveness as a cardiovascular support device.