Miniature Heart Pump Uses NASA Technology

Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs) offer mechanical assistance to ailing hearts, either as a temporary solution (Bridge to Transplant) or for some as a permanent alternative (Destination Therapy). An innovative new miniature implantable mechanical circulatory support device is currently in U.S. clinical trials.

Designed in collaboration by NASA, and Drs. Michael DeBakey and George Noon with the Baylor College of Medicine, the DeBakey VAD from MicroMed (www.micromedtech.com) is designed for implantation in adult and pediatric advanced heart failure patients who can no longer provide necessary blood flow with their own hearts.

The technology is intended to take over virtually all left ventricular heart function while monitoring real time flow. The device uses axial flow pump technology that was developed by NASA to meet its reliability requirements for the Space Shuttle's fuel pump. The DeBakey VAD weighs just 4 ounces and measures 1 x 3-in.

MicroMed currently has two clinical investigations underway at more than 30 U.S. heart transplant centers to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the device as a Bridge to Transplant and Destination Therapy. The DeBakey VAD Child is the only approved miniaturized implantable VAD in the country available for use in children.