Intravascular micropump for augmented liver perfusion: First in vivo experience

The aim of this study was to assess the in vivo performance of a new microa xial rotary blood pump developed for long-term intraportal implantation. Th e pump, measuring 7 mm in diameter, has a single stage impeller and is powe red by a microelectric motor. The pump was implanted into the portal vein i n 13 large white pigs under general anesthesia. All animals recovered after the portal pump implantation. and they were observed until the pump failed . The 2 longest running pumps performed for 40 and 36 h, respectively. Eith er thrombus formation or technical problems, especially in the bearings, we re the main causes of pump failure during the experiment. No local or syste mic adverse effects were observed during the portal pumping period. Full re covery of the animals following intraportal pump implantation was achieved. However, further technical improvements to the pump are required to mainta in a longer performance in vivo.