Distal Perfusion Device for Traumatic Aortic Injury and Complex Aortic Repair
Hemorrhage after penetrating injury of the torso is a common but preventable cause of death on the battlefield. Bleeding in the torso is not amenable to external compression, and repair of torso wounds is possible only in facilities with proper imaging equipment and expertise. Because the extent of hemorrhage can dramatically impact patient outcome, the major issue becomes how to stabilize patients during transport from the front line of a battlefield. Civilian traumatic aortic injuries pose similar risks and concerns.
Description
A distal perfusion device has been developed to temporarily cover the site of traumatic torso injuries and, most importantly, to maintain continued blood flow distal to the injury. In doing so, this device would stop further hemorrhage and reduce the risk of paralysis and organ failure. To address the absence of suitable imaging on the front line, a prototype radiofrequency sensor was designed based on microelectromechanical (MEMS) technology that may allow for portable positioning of the device as well as transmission of important patient vital signs.Applications
· Reduce bleeding on the battlefield and stabilize a soldier for transport to a medical facility· Stabilizing hemorrhaging civilians by emergency first responders for transport to a medical facility
· Facilitate repair of aneurysms by replacing complex left heart bypass
Advantages
· Covers vessel injury to prevent blood loss· Maintains distal perfusion to organs, lower extremities, and spinal cord
· Sensors to detect device positioning and hemodynamic monitoring
· No comparable approach to address life threatening, hemorrhagic injuries