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In vivo comparison of two enteric-pouch power transformers for circulatory support
D B Melvin1, D L Glos, D Nebrigic
1Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Ohio 45267-0558, USA.
Artificial Organs
|August 1, 1997
Summary
This study developed implantable power transformers using defunctionalized ileal pouches in dogs. Transformer B demonstrated higher efficiency and lower weight, making it suitable for long-term evaluation in wireless power transfer systems.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Implantable Devices
- Wireless Power Transfer
Background:
- Defunctionalized ileal pouches offer a thin-walled, well-perfused, and tactile-insensitive biological scaffold.
- The pouch's properties, when integrated with the abdominal wall and a stoma, can facilitate efficient intra- to extracorporeal power transformers.
- Magnetic flux containment is crucial for safe and effective wireless power transmission in implanted devices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and performance of implantable wireless power transformers utilizing defunctionalized ileal pouches.
- To compare two distinct transformer designs (A and B) for their electrical characteristics, anatomical integration, and safety in a canine model.
- To determine the optimal design for long-term implantation and continuous wireless power delivery.
Main Methods:
- Two transformer prototypes (A and B) with different core materials and configurations were designed and fabricated.
- Transformer prototypes were implanted in dogs via minilaparotomy, with fixation within the abdominal musculature for 14-21 days.
- Key parameters assessed included operative feasibility, electrical function (power transmission, efficiency), heat dissipation, magnetic flux containment, and tissue response.
Main Results:
- Both transformer designs met electrical and anatomical requirements, demonstrating successful implantation and function.
- Transformer B (68 gm, 14.7 kHz, k=0.99) exhibited higher DC/DC efficiency (80.4%) compared to Transformer A (75.6%).
- Minimal warming (Group A: 0.62°C, Group B: 0.73°C) and trivial skin surface magnetic fluxes (A: 1.7 G, B: 1.2 G) were observed, with no adverse tissue reactions or device displacement.
Conclusions:
- Implantable wireless power transformers utilizing defunctionalized ileal pouches are feasible and safe for short-term implantation in dogs.
- Transformer B, characterized by lower mass, lower frequency, higher efficiency, and inherent stability, is the preferred design for further investigation.
- This technology holds promise for future advancements in wirelessly powered implantable medical devices.
