ABSTRACT
Recent advances in hemodynamic support can allow patients at high risk for cardiovascular collapse to become candidates for coronary interventions. A new axial blood flow pump has recently been developed and made available for clinical testing. This intravascular pump utilizes an Archimedes screw pump rotating at 25,000 rpms to provide a flow of 2 to 3.5 liters/minute. The 7 mm inlet cannula of the cable driven pump is delivered across the aortic valve. The pump discharges blood into the descending aorta. This design does not require a membrane oxygenator. This pump would be expected to: 1) provide circulatory support irrespective of heart arrhythmias; 2) provide left ventricular unloading and 3) lack the fluid and coagulation abnormalities of prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass. This unique device offers great promise to the interventional cardiologist.
