Implantable micropump system for augmented liver perfusion.
Liver cirrhosis, a worldwide health problem, decreases the blood flow through the liver. This in turn leads to dangerous portal hypertension and decreased metabolic function within the liver. To improve this situation, a new concept is proposed which involves introducing a microaxial blood pump into the portal vein. This device is intended to increase blood flow through the liver and to enhance hepatic function. Furthermore, high pressures will be reduced to physiological levels. The microaxial pump with its single stage impeller is powered by a proximally integrated microelectric motor. The pump unit is completely immersed within the blood vessel. Heat caused by electrical and mechanical losses will be transported into the blood. In vitro optimization of the pump design was accomplished using both hydraulic and hemolysis tests.
Marseille
O
O
Helmholtz-Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Aachen, Germany.
Habib
N
N
Reul
H
H
Rau
G
G
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D011211:Electric Power Supplies; D004560:Electricity; D006461:Hemolysis; D006358:Hot Temperature; D006801:Humans; D006975:Hypertension, Portal / Q000517:prevention & control; D015918:Infusion Pumps, Implantable; D008099:Liver / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D008102:Liver Circulation / Q000502:physiology; D008103:Liver Cirrhosis / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D008904:Miniaturization; D017082:Portal Pressure / Q000502:physiology; D011169:Portal Vein; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D012212:Rheology; D012399:Rotation
D001672:Biocompatible Materials