Temporary mechanical cardiac assistance in small animals

Abstract

A mechanical cardiac assist device which is designed for the temporary support of infants and children has been tested in a canine model. Its efficacy in the delivery of counterpulsation through a cannula of small internal diameter (4.8 mm) has been demonstrated with a resultant 28% unloading of the left ventricle and augmentation of cardiac output. Additional advantages of permanent implantation of the cannula, an extracorporeal pumping chamber functional at rapid heart rates, and non-thrombogenic surfaces, make this device suitable for application to the pediatric patient.