TOTALLY IMPLANTABLE VENTRICULAR ASSIST SYSTEM USING THE VIBRATING FLOW PUMP FROM JAPAN

Abstract

Aiming at a totally implantable type ventricular assist device (VAD), Vibrating flow pump (VFP) was developed in Tohoku University. The transcutaneous energy transmission system (TETS) using the amorphousness fiber was developed to constitute the totally implantable VAD system. Artificial heart works with high frequency compared with a natural heart. It is frequency of 10-50 Hz. In this research, animal experiment was carried out with the healthy adult goats. Blood from left ventricular apex was received, and sent to descending aorta. Enough supporting effect of left heart was provided. In particular, depression effect of left ventricle was obvious. As a result, enough artificial heart flow was provided. For the totally implantable type VAD, left heart bypass of almost 100% may be necessary in some situations. So, apex approaches of the left heart bypass may be desirable. From the anatomical consideration, , an apex of a heart is suitable for the totally implantable VFP. In the left heart bypass with left apical approach, almost 100 % bypass was possible, which is important for natural heart to wait for recovery of enough cardiac function. And it is important that left heart circulation is maintained fully. In summary, VFP was considered to be useful as a totally implable type left ventricular assist device.