Abstract
We have developed a ventricular assist cup which did not contact the blood directly. We performed an experimental study to evaluate the effect of this system for circulatory support in 2 mongrel dogs. The cup, whose form is like wineglass, attaches to ventricular wall and consists of inner flexible diaphragm and outer hard housing. Diaphragm via positive pneumatic force compress ventricular wall directly during systole. Under ventricular assist cup actuation, hemodynamic parameters were improved as follows; systemic arterial pressure: 69-72/48-52→91-95/49-54mmHg, cardiac output: 0.7-0.80→1.2-1.3l/mm, before and after actuation, respectively. Systemic arterial pressure of 80/38mmHg and cardiac output of 1.0l/min could be maintained using this device for a fibrillated heart. In conclusion, this ventricular assist cup is a beneficial alternative as circulatory support system without contacting blood directly.
