Investigations to develop an implantable assist pump for prolonged circulatory support have been impeded by accumulation of friable thrombus on the prosthetic interface, with subsequent embolization. To circumvent this problem, the textured, fibril surface of a polyurethane pump chamber (mat thickness 430 microns) was inoculated with cultured bovine fetal fibroblasts (labelled with thymidine-14C) prior to animal implantation. The pneumatically actuated device (stroke volume 75 ml), maintained a pulsatile blood flow throughout each study. In 20 calf experiments, extending up to 335 days, 30 X 10(6) fibroblasts (in 50 ml media) derived from a single Holstein fetus were distributed on the urethane surface (360 +/- 50 cells/mm2) by rotation of a sealed device for three hours (12 revolutions/hour). Following connection to the circulation, cell washout was minimal. Resultant biologic linings, examined after animal sacrifice, were densely adherent to the underlying polymer matrix, and varied in thickness from 250 micron-1.5 mm. Microscopically, fibroblasts were identified from the surface to base, accompanied by numerous collagen bundles and abundant ground substance. Amino acid analysis in 10/20 pumps implanted for 31--335 days, revealed 50 +/- 5 Hydroxyproline residues/1000 residues (50% collagen) and scant elastin. Donor fibroblasts were identified by radioautography and karyotyping. Lack of immunologic response in 12 Hereford pump recipients as confirmed by serial fibroblast cytotoxicity assays. In conclusion, an induced collagenous-blood interface permitted prolonged mechanical circulatory support in animals without thromboembolic complications.
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