Wireless power could cut cord for patients with implanted heart pumps

University of Washington
July 12, 2011

Mechanical pumps to give failing hearts a boost were originally developed as temporary measures for patients awaiting a heart transplant. But as the technology has improved, these ventricular assist devices commonly operate in patients for years, including in former vice-president Dick Cheney, whose implant this month celebrates its one-year anniversary.

Prolonged use, however, has its own problems. The power cord that protrudes through the patient’s belly is cumbersome and prone to infection over time. Infections occur in close to 40 percent of patients, are the leading cause of rehospitalization, and can be fatal.

Researchers at the University of Washington and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center have tested a wireless power system for ventricular assist devices. They recently presented the work in Washington, D.C. at the American Society for Artificial Internal Organsannual meeting, where it received the Willem Kolff/Donald B. Olsen Award for most promising research in the development of artificial hearts.
To read more click here...