Evaluation of platelet aggregability during left ventricular bypass using a MedTech MagLev VAD in a series of chronic calf experiments

J Artif Organs. 2013 Mar;16(1):34-41. doi: 10.1007/s10047-012-0664-2. Epub 2012 Oct 3.

Abstract

The impact of continuous flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) pumping on platelet aggregation was investigated in animal experiments utilizing six calves. A single-use MagLev centrifugal blood pump, MedTech MagLev, was used to bypass the calves' hearts from the left atrium to the descending aorta at a flow rate of 50 ml/kg/min. The LVAD's impact on blood coagulation activities was evaluated based on the platelet aggregability, which was measured with a turbidimetric assay method during the preoperative, operative, and postoperative periods. Heparin and warfarin were used for anticoagulation, while aspirin was used for the antiplatelet therapy. A decrease in platelet aggregation immediately after the pump started was observed in the cases of successful long-term pump operation, while the absence of such a decrease might have caused coagulation-related complications to terminate the experiments. Thus, the platelet aggregability was found to be significantly affected by the pump, and its initial trend may be related to the long-term outcome of the mechanical circulatory support.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anticoagulants / pharmacology
  • Aspirin / pharmacology
  • Cattle
  • Heart Bypass, Left*
  • Heart-Assist Devices*
  • Heparin / pharmacology
  • Male
  • Platelet Aggregation / drug effects
  • Platelet Aggregation / physiology*
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Warfarin / pharmacology

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors
  • Warfarin
  • Heparin
  • Aspirin