Clinical evaluation of left heart bypass with a Medtronic Bio-Medicus centrifugal pump as an assistance in descending thoracic aortic aneurysm operation.

Abstract

The system of left heart bypass using a Medtronic Bio-Medicus centrifugal pump in the surgery for descending thoracic aortic aneurysm was evaluated of its reliability and effectiveness at 10 institutes in conformity with the Japanese Drugs, Cosmetics and Medical Instruments Act. In a total 38 patients, bypass time ranged from 22 to 264 min with the average being 116 min, and mean bypass flow averaged 2.0±0.81/min. In one case, thrombus formation was noted in a blood reservoir for the rapid transfusion system, and insubstantial paralytic ileus developed postoperatively. In the other 37 cases, no apparent complications relating to the Bio-Pump system were recognized. It was determined that in all cases the system was effective compared with other conventional methods such as temporary shunt or partial cardiopulmonary bypass. In conclusion, left heart bypass with a Medtronic Bio-Medicus centrifugal pump was evaluated as an effective and reliable method in the operation for descending thoracic aortic aneurysm.