Wireless Power Transmission for Left Ventricular Assist Devices: In-Vivo Trials, Challenges, and Future Directions

This paper aims to provide an overview of research achievements in the application of wireless power transfer (WPT) technology to power left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). These devices are implanted cardiac pumps designed to support patients with severe heart failure. LVAD implants are currently powered through a percutaneous cable that is often the cause of critical infections known as driveline infections (DLI) that require device explantation. The innovative WPT technology to power LVAD systems is a particularly attractive solution to overcome the criticality related to DLI and to improve patient comfort. A central focus is placed on the in vivo evaluation of a transcutaneous wireless LVAD power system, with comprehensive details provided regarding its architecture, technical specifications, and the data gathered during experimental trials. The successful in vivo testing underscores the practical feasibility and clinical relevance of this approach.