Preclinical evaluation of a biolized temporary ventricular assist device

ABSTRACT

An external clinical temporary ventricular assist device (VAD) has been developed with the use of our universal, multipurpose cardiac prosthesis with specially designed inflow and outflow cannulas. The cannulas allow flexibility in application of the VAD, which can access the vascular system via either the atrium or ventricle for inflow, and the aorta or pulmonary artery for outflow. A high-pressure pneumatic actuator activates the pusher-plate of the VAD. The clinical drive system for this VAD has complete redundancy and automatic switching to a backup system in the event of any component failure. Six VADs were tested in calves as a temporary left VAD before clinical use and functioned well.