Energy transmission and power sources for mechanical circulatory support devices to achieve total implantability

Ann Thorac Surg. 2014 Apr;97(4):1467-74. doi: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2013.10.107. Epub 2014 Feb 12.

Abstract

Left ventricular assist device therapy has radically improved congestive heart failure survival with smaller rotary pumps. The driveline used to power today's left ventricular assist devices, however, continues to be a source of infection, traumatic damage, and rehospitalization. Previous attempts to wirelessly power left ventricular assist devices using transcutaneous energy transfer systems have been limited by restrictions on separation distance and alignment between the transmit and receive coils. Resonant electrical energy transfer allows power delivery at larger distances without compromising safety and efficiency. This review covers the efforts to wirelessly power mechanical circulatory assist devices and the progress made in enhancing their energy sources.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Electric Power Supplies*
  • Energy Transfer
  • Heart-Assist Devices*
  • Humans
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Wireless Technology