Breakthrough in Heart Failure Treatment: Wireless Power and Communication for Left Ventricular Assist Devices
Albany, NY - A team of researchers at SUNY Poly led by Assistant Professor Dr. Amit Sangwan has made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of cardiovascular engineering, developing a novel approach to powering left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) wirelessly.
In a recent study published in Cardiovascular Engineering and Technology, Dr. Sangwan and his colleagues successfully tested the feasibility of a wireless power transmission system, known as the Bionet Sonar Ultrasound Transcutaneous Energy Transmission (UTET) System. This innovative technology leverages ultrasonic waves to transmit energy wirelessly to LVADs, eliminating the need for traditional drivelines.
The development of this system is significant because it addresses one of the major drawbacks of current LVAD technology - physical drivelines that increase the risk of infections and complications. The UTET system's wireless capabilities could significantly reduce these risks, improve patient comfort, and enhance overall safety.
During laboratory and animal model testing, the UTET system demonstrated its ability to wirelessly provide power to LVADs across various flow and speed settings while monitoring critical parameters such as tissue temperature to ensure safe transmission limits. The system also successfully transmitted data in real-time, maintaining pump control, which is crucial for patient safety and device reliability.
This breakthrough presents a promising direction toward fully implantable LVADs, improving the quality of life and safety for patients who depend on mechanical circulatory support. The research also paves the way for further developments in implantable medical devices that can operate without external power connections, expanding the scope of transcutaneous energy transmission systems.
Dr. Sangwan, along with collaborators from Bionet Sonar and University of Louisville, has made a significant contribution to the field of cardiovascular engineering, offering new hope for heart failure patients worldwide.