Coplanar Energy Transfer: Report of Successful Chronic Animal Model

Yigal Kassif MD, Ivan Netuka MD, Jiri Maly MD, Michael Zilbershlag BSc, MBa, Sharona Bistry BSc, Stephan Schueler, MD, PhD FRCS.

We have developed, in Leviticus-Cardio, Ltd., a unique wireless Coplanar Energy Transfer (CET) system for implantable Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs). Following previous acute in-vivo testing, we have now performed successful chronic animal experiments.

• Methods:

The CET system was previously demonstrated with successful acute pig experiments using mock circulation, for up to 23 days. Here we present a successful chronic animal model in which LVAD pumps were implanted in sheep, connected to the heart as in humans, and fully operated using the CET system.

• The CET system was implanted in four sheep:
• In two, the LVADs were operated for one day and one week for model establishment.
• Sheep 3 was dedicated to real life imitation for three weeks of discharge/recharge cycles of the implanted batteries, with an endpoint of total discharge.
• Sheep 4 was dedicated to verify long term stability, ending after 28 days.

Results:

• Successful daily 6-9 hours discharge + 4/5 hours’ recharge cycles for 10 consecutive days using normal LVAD power.
• Full discharge time of 11 hours: time to alarm (10 hours) and time between alarm and LVAD stop (24 min) were tested.
• We achieved 45 days’ system stability.

• Conclusions:

The CET system is reliable, providing both stable and consistent energy transfer as well as 6-9 hours’ internal battery operation. We show excellent electrical and mechanical operation of the combined systems - CET + LVAD. The integrated system will allow future patients to experience higher quality of life without compromising