Self-Connecting Inflow Cannula to Support Implantation of Ventricular Assist Device

Abstract

The inflow cannula of left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) is connected with suturing, and the establishment of a convenient and less time procedure is required for a consistent connection. We have developed a self-connecting inflow cannula using the integrated low-level energies adhesion technique that enables tissue and metal adhesion only by applying heat and pressure for around a hundred seconds. In this study, we performed an animal experiment to identify issues with the device. The device connection was completed in about 6 minutes. Based on the experimental results, we improved the device; the adhesive area height is shortened from 15 mm to 10.5 mm to fit the ventricle wall thickness, and the number of vacuum slits is increased from two to three to improve the tissue adhesion. The adhesion strength of the device is improved by 40% from 36 kPa to 50 kPa.