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Ann Thorac Surg 1999;68:785-789
© 1999 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons

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Innovative Circulatory Support Systems

Progress with the HeartSaver ventricular assist device

^a Cardiovascular Devices Division, University of Ottawa Heart Institute and WorldHeart Corporation, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Address reprint requests to Dr Mussivand, Cardiovascular Devices Division, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, 1053 Carling Ave, Rm H560B, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1Y 4E9
e-mail: tofym{at}heartinst.on.ca

Presented at the Fourth International Conference on Circulatory Support Devices for Severe Cardiac Failure, Houston, TX, Oct 3–5, 1997.

Abstract

Background. Ventricular assist devices (VADs) have been shown to be effective for short- or long-term circulatory support. Devices are either being adapted or newly designed for longer term or permanent support, with the goal to provide patients with improved quality of life. Since 1990, a program has been in place to develop a totally implantable, permanent VAD.

Methods. A multidisciplinary team is developing this VAD with specific goals in mind: (1) that it have an intrathoracic position, (2) that it be a totally implantable device without any percutaneous connections, and (3) that it be possible to communicate with the device from remote locations. These goals would allow for complete patient mobility and flexibility for follow-up.

Results. The electrohydraulically actuated VAD combines the blood pump, volume displacement chamber, energy converter, and internal electronic module into a single compact unit. The device called the HeartSaver VAD is powered by a transcutaneous energy transfer system and can be remotely monitored and controlled. Prototypes of different versions of the device have been tested in vitro and in vivo with satisfactory performance.

Conclusions. The prototypes of the HeartSaver VAD have functioned well under test conditions and fulfilled the outlined goals. Further development and testing of the design are being conducted before clinical availability.

This article has been cited by other articles:

				P. J. Hendry, T. V. Mussivand, R. G. Masters, M. E. Bourke, G. M. Guiraudon, K. S. Holmes, K. D. Day, and W. J. Keon The HeartSaver left ventricular assist device: an update Ann. Thorac. Surg., March 1, 2001; 71 (2007): S166 - S170. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]

				A K Mahmood, J M Courtney, S Westaby, M Akdis, and H Reul Critical review of current left ventricular assist devices Perfusion, September 1, 2000; 15(5): 399 - 420. [PDF]