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Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices Excel with Brushless DC Motor Technology

October 20, 2022
mechanical-circulatory-support-devices-cardiology

The heart, which is one of the most important organs in the body, is at the very center of your circulatory system. Responsible for pumping blood throughout the body, this organ utilizes a network of arteries, veins, and capillaries to deliver the nutrient, oxygen, and carbon dioxide-rich blood to all the body’s areas and organs. When the heart is healthy, the heart beats at a normal pace and delivers the right amount of blood. Unfortunately, acute or advanced heart failure can temporarily stop the heart from pumping; this can impact the heart’s ability to resume its normal flow once it is restarted. Other factors, including blocked arteries or issues with your body’s electrical, nervous, or endocrine system, can cause a reduced flow from the heart and will require assistance to resolve.

Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices Explained

This is where mechanical circulatory support devices enter the picture. These devices help your heart function better, restoring the proper flow for short periods or for the duration of the patient’s life; they have also been shown to improve survival and quality of life, even enhancing recovery of the function of the heart. Short term ventricular assist devices, or cardiac assist devices, are sophisticated mechanical pumps that support the heart in pumping blood through weakened heart chambers. These devices can be intracorporeal, where the motion drive unit is inside the body, or extracorporeal, where the motion drive unit is outside the body. This type of temporary support is used for high-risk procedures with a duration of hours, such as recovery post-surgery; or as a bridge for a transplant or other therapy, with a duration of days/weeks.

Brushless DC Motors Power Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices

Both types of mechanical circulatory devices require high precision brushless DC motors with maximum responsiveness to properly follow the sinus rhythm of the heart. Portescap’s Ultra ECTM brushless DC technology is well-suited for this application, utilizing the patented U coil to provide high torque output in a small package. These mini motors deliver the high efficiency necessary to limit losses during operation, minimizing the temperature rise of the device, as well as provide the low noise and vibration to ensure quiet operation. The slotless design provides rapid speed and direction change capabilities; in addition, material options are available to comply with biocompatibility requirements.

Searching for a motor supplier for your next mechanical circulatory support device? Our engineering expertise and customization capabilities make us the ideal partner for development, and our Portescap BLDC motor technology provides the maximum responsiveness and efficiency to meet the demanding application requirements. Reach out to us here to discuss your next project!