In a heartbeat: Tiny propeller retains blood flowing
The percutaneous coronary heart pump (PHP) developed at Penn State, proven right here with a mannequin of the left ventricle of a human coronary heart , can preserve a affected person's blood flowing easily after a coronary heart assault. Credit score: Courtesy of Rob Kunz Within the moments after a coronary heart assault, each second counts. Medical professionals must act rapidly to stabilize the affected person and forestall additional injury to the guts. Typically, meaning opening up the chest cavity -- a posh and traumatic process -- and implanting a left ventricular help system (LVAD) to assist the weakened coronary heart muscle preserve pumping blood all through the physique. Due to a brand new kind of LVAD developed by Penn State researchers, such an invasive process won't be essential for some coronary heart sufferers. The tiny Heartmate PHP (percutaneous coronary heart pump) is inserted into the femoral artery within the thigh and thread...