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A computer controlled pulsatile pump: preliminary study
M S Zwarts1, S R Topaz, D N Jones
1Kolff's Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA.
The International Journal of Artificial Organs
|December 1, 1996
Summary
A novel Stepper Motor Driven Reciprocating Pump (SDRP) offers a promising alternative for medical fluid circulation. This pump generates pulsatile flow with low hemolysis, suitable for cardiopulmonary bypass and dialysis.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Existing roller and rotary pumps have limitations in medical applications.
- Artificial hearts and ventricular assist devices utilize similar ventricle designs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate a Stepper Motor Driven Reciprocating Pump (SDRP) as a replacement for conventional pumps.
- To assess the SDRP's suitability for applications like cardiopulmonary bypass and hemodialysis.
Main Methods:
- The SDRP employs a stepper motor and linkage belt to drive a reciprocating motion.
- This motion actuates a sphere against blood pumping ventricles, generating pulsatile flow.
- Studies involved pressure and flow measurements using water and preliminary blood circulation tests.
Main Results:
- The SDRP produces pulsatile flow and has a minimal priming volume.
- Integrated motor driver limits outflow pressure, acting as a safety feature.
- Preliminary blood studies demonstrated low hemolysis over 16 hours of circulation.
Conclusions:
- The SDRP is a viable alternative to roller and rotary pumps for medical fluid circulation.
- Its design offers safety features and low hemolysis, beneficial for blood-related applications.
- Further development could integrate dual pumps for enhanced functionality.