Abstract
We have developed a Direct Mechanical Left Vetricular-Assist Device( DMIVAD), a new assist device for the severe left ventricular failure. It was an ellipsoid-shaped, made of hard epoxy base plate and flexible polyurethane membrane. The device was attached to the free wall of the left ventricle. and directly pressed flexible membrane by a pneumatically driving unit. It was evaluated in a canine left ventricular failure model. After the driving pressure was increased to 50, 100, 150 or 200mmHg, most effective increases in paralneters of APs, LyPs, LVdP/dt, C. O. and Peak Flow were achieved by 17.0%, 23.0%, 49.3%. 30.7% and 133.5%. respectively and only LAPm was decreased by 14.5%. When LAPm was flxed at 10, 15 and 20mmHg, the above-mentioned parameters were increased by 19.1%, 24, 6%, 71, 6%, 45.4% and 156.3%, respectively These primaly results suggested that DMLVAD can be an additional option of circulatory assist for the left ventricular failure, although further evaluation is necessary.
