Precursor of Artificial Lung Developed

A device that functions like a temporary set of lungs has been developed by Brack Hattler, Ph.D., a professor of surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine (UPMC, PA, USA). Although the device is not designed for prolonged support, it is expected to contribute toward the ongoing development of long-term devices, estimated to be two or three years from human testing.

Laboratory and animal studies suggest that the device, called the Hattler Respiratory Catheter, could do an adequate job of exchanging carbon dioxide and oxygen in patients with compromised lungs, allowing the lungs to rest and heal. The device could be of great benefit to patients with emphysema, chest trauma, or acute respiratory distress, as well as to victims of toxic gas inhalation or chemical warfare.

The Hattler Catheter is inserted through a vein in the leg and positioned into the vena cava, the major vein returning blood to the heart. The device consists of hollow fiber membranes that introduce oxygen into the body and remove carbon dioxide. A central balloon within the fibers can inflate and deflate at a rate of 300 beats per minute to move the fibers and mix the blood. In essence, respiration takes place even though the lungs are severely injured and functioning poorly. The extracorporeal membrane oxygenators currently in use can cause life-threatening complications and death in patients.

The device is intended to temporarily take over the function of the lungs. It is not intended to be used for prolonged support, as a bridge to transplant or as a total replacement of the lungs. However, said Dr. Hattler, findings from clinical trials will lead to a greater understanding of what is required for the development of long-term devices. He reported on the device at a meeting of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation in Vancouver (Canada).

"The artificial lung especially has lingered behind progress with artificial hearts and ventricular assist devices, not because the need for lungs has not been recognized, but because we have not had a full understanding of the engineering problems and the unique material requirements until recent years,” explained Dr. Hattler.




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