Improving heart support devices for children with severe heart failure

Pediatric Transapical Double Lumen Cannula with Integrated Compliance Chambers Doubles Flow of Paracorporeal Pulsatile VAD

NIH-funded research W-Z Biotech, LLC · NIH-10699790

This study is testing a new heart device designed just for kids with severe heart failure to make their treatment easier and help them move around better, while also improving how well the device works compared to the current options.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionW-Z Biotech, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10699790 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new type of ventricular assist device (VAD) specifically for pediatric patients suffering from severe heart failure. The current FDA-approved device, the Berlin Heart EXCOR, has limitations in efficiency and can cause blood damage due to its design. The proposed solution is a transapical double lumen cannula that allows for a less invasive procedure and improves blood flow efficiency by continuously withdrawing and infusing blood. This innovative approach aims to enhance the overall treatment experience for young patients and facilitate their mobility.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pediatric patients diagnosed with severe heart failure who require a ventricular assist device.

Not a fit: Patients with mild heart failure or those who do not require mechanical support may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide pediatric patients with a more efficient and less invasive heart support option, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach is innovative, similar technologies have shown promise in adult populations, indicating potential for success in pediatric applications.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.