St Paul Heart Clinic in Minnesota, US, has reported that the first patients in the state have been implanted with the world's first non-blood contacting mechanical heart assist system.
The C-Pulse Heart Assist System is indicated for the treatment of people with Class III/IV ambulatory heart failure.
The system, developed by Sunshine Heart, was implanted in two patients with Class III heart failure at Nasseff Heart Hospital in St Paul Heart Clinic, as a part of an FDA-approved investigated device exemption feasibility study.
The implant uses counterpulsation technology to increase cardiac output and coronary blood flow.
