title: Evaluation of platelet activation in patients supported by the Jarvik 2000* high-rotational speed impeller ventricular assist device.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The Jarvik 2000 (Jarvik Heart, Inc, New York, NY) is a thumb-sized high-speed impeller pump that is used as a ventricular assist device in patients with terminal heart failure. Because the Jarvik 2000 is designed for long-term use, it is a central question whether the mechanical forces inside the pump affect blood components. This study evaluated the potential association of the high rotational speed of the Jarvik 2000 with platelet activation, which may result in thromboembolic events.
  
  
  METHODS
  The study group comprised patients with terminal heart failure who were supported with the Jarvik 2000. All were men and received 100 mg aspirin daily. In 8 patients, soluble platelet activation markers (P-selectin and sCD40L), platelet counts, and hemolysis markers (haptoglobin and lactate dehydrogenase levels) were determined. In 5 patients, P-selectin expression and platelet receptor glycoprotein IIb/IIIa activation were determined with flow cytometry and compared with a control group of 5 healthy men. Platelet activation was measured at various rotational device speeds.
  
  
  RESULTS
  After Jarvik 2000 implantation, increased hemolysis was observed, but platelet activation markers and platelet counts were not affected. Increased rotational speed (8000 to 12,000 rpm) of the device also did not result in increased platelet activation.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The Jarvik 2000 was not associated with detectable platelet activation, despite high rotational impeller speeds.
authors.affiliation: Department of Cardiology and Angiology, University Hospital, Albert-Ludwigs-University, Freiburg, Germany.
authors.forename: Christoph
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Löffler
authors.forename: Andreas
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Straub
authors.forename: Nicole
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Bassler
authors.forename: Katharina
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Pernice
authors.forename: Friedhelm
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Beyersdorf
authors.forename: Christoph
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Bode
authors.forename: Michael P
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Siegenthaler
authors.forename: Karlheinz
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Peter
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D004867:Equipment Design; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000601:surgery*; D006353:Heart-Assist Devices; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015539:Platelet Activation