Summary:
UCLA researchers in the Department of Cardiac Surgery have developed a novel guided cannula that drains both sides of the heart and contains continuous pressure sensors.
Background:
The market for Extracorporeal life support modalities such as ECMO has grown by almost an order of magnitude in the last decade, with maintained growth projected through 2030. These technologies provide in-hospital support to patients undergoing cardiac and respiratory failure across a wide variety of indications. Most commonly, patients are supported using cannulae, peripherally inserted tubes that support blood circulation, drain fluid and administer treatment. Current methods of cannulation often lead to distension of the left atrium and ventricle, causing several problems. Inability to drain the atrium can lead to pulmonary edema and the stasis caused by ECMO can result in thrombosis. Technologies to drain the left side of the heart have been developed, but are still plagued by high cost (in the tens of thousands of dollars) and negative side effects like limb ischemia. The need persists for a cannula that can be stably positioned for cardiac insertion and drainage.
Innovation:
UCLA clinicians have developed a novel cannula that can provide effective drainage for the left side of the heart. Falling out of the left atrium is avoided using a novel integrated balloon system, anchoring it in place and preventing migration over time. The cannula also contains drainage infrastructure throughout its length, offering right heart and venous drainage. Patient care is further improved with continuous pressure sensing through the entirety of the catheter, obviating the need for additional pressure-sensing tools. Overall, this catheter system will improve patient outcomes in cardiothoracic procedures and ECMO while decreasing the amount of hands-on work needed by interventional radiologists.
Potential Applications:
• Treatment of heart and respiratory failure.
• Intensive care including ECMO.
• Advanced cardiac life support in less controlled environments, ex: military field hospitals.
• Surgical monitoring
Advantages:
• Full heart drainage in single device.
• Integrated pressure sensors.
• Simplified implantation using fluoroscopy or echocardiography.
• Migration prevention.
State of Development:
The inventors have designed the cannula and fabricated a prototype of the technology.
Reference:
UCLA Case No. 2023-024
Lead Inventor:
Peyman Benharash, UCLA Associate Professor of Surgery