EFFICACY OF A SKELETAL MUSCLE-POWERED DYNAMIC PATCH .1. LEFT-VENTRICULAR ASSISTANCE

In this study, we examined the capability of a skeletal muscle-powered , dynamic patch to provide left ventricular assistance. An actuator wa s developed that used linear traction power furnished by the latissimu s dorsi muscle and liquid as the medium for power transfer. The proxim al portion of the muscle was dissected and was reattached to the actua tor. The left ventricular apex was excised, and the dynamic patch line d with autologous pericardium was implanted during cardiopulmonary byp ass. Hemodynamic studies were performed in 8 dogs after weaning from c ardiopulmonary bypass. Muscle stimulation was found to significantly i ncrease the systolic aortic pressure (91.6 versus 112.1 mm Hg; p < 0.0 1), the mean aortic pressure (65.2 versus 73.0 mm Hg p < 0.01), and ao rtic blood now (0.77 versus 0.92 L/min; p < 0.01). The left atrial pre ssure decreased from 17.9 to 16.6 mm Hg (p < 0.01). This ''hybrid'' le ft ventricular assist device possesses notable clinical advantages bec ause of its remarkable efficacy in assisting circulation. Further expe rimental studies using preconditioned skeletal muscle are necessary to assess the long-term effects of this technique.