IR and microscopic studies of polyurethane surface in the Polish extracorporeal ventricular assist device POLVAD-MEV

Purpose: The aim of this article is to show results of IR measurements and microscopic analysis performed on layers prepared with dissolved VAD fragments and pieces of ventricular assist devices cut out of from determined VAD sectors. Design/methodology/approach: The objects of the study have been POLVAD-MEV VADs from POLCAS system. Four ventricular assist devices POLVAD-MEV have been investigated with use M80 SPECORD IR spectrophotometer and high sensitivity Zeiss – 5 Exciter Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope equipped with a CCD camera. Findings: The carried IR and microscopic studies showed changes of VAD inner surface. All VAD polyurethane fragments had lower or higher degree of degradation, which isn’t directly connected with implantation time. Research limitations/implications: The polyurethane degradation and surface damage is probably connected with its hydrolysis. The potential effect of blood interaction with VAD inner surface was discussed. Originality/value: of this paper is spectrophotometer and microscopic studies of polyurethane surface in the polish extracorporeal ventricular assist device POLVAD-MEV.