![Sample our Bioscience journals, sign in here to start your access, Latest two full volumes FREE to you for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5925/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Bioscience.jpg"})
Abstract
A pulsatile, portable, versatile pump for cardiopulmonary bypass has been developed by Bentley Laboratories, using an externally powered air piston-driven ventricle chamber. The pump closely approximates the action of the left ventricle with variable pulse rates (20–120 beats/min) and automatically variable stroke volume (10–100 ml/stroke). Activation from an external source such as the “R” wave of the electrocardiogram is provided. The pump may thus be used in either synchronous or counterpulsation techniques during cardiac failure. The system will perfuse at a rate of 1–6 liters/min providing either total or partial body perfusion. The actuator is gas powered. The control system utilizes fluidic-electronic interfaces, either battery or alternating current powered. Thus the system may be completely portable.
The ventricle is made from a negatively charged inherently antithrombogenic polyurethane. The system has proven very gentle to blood cells and other blood components, including proteins, in extended in vitro evaluation. It is now undergoing extended in vivo and clinical evaluation and use. The results of these evaluations will be presented. This new pump provides an effective, reliable, minimally hemolytic, versatile pulsatile chamber pump for external use.