ObjectiveIntracardiac beating-heart procedures require the introduction and exchange of complex instruments and devices. To prevent potential complications such as air embolism and bleeding, a universal cardioport was designed and tested.MethodsThe design consists of a port body and a series of interchangeable sleeves. The port uses a fluid purging system to remove air from the instrument before insertion into the heart, and a valve system minimizes blood loss during instrument changes.ResultsThe cardioport was tested ex vivo and in vivo in pigs (n = 5). Beating-heart procedures, such as septal defect closure and mitral valve repair, were modeled. Ex vivo trials (n = 150) were performed, and no air emboli were introduced using the port. In comparison, air emboli were detected in 40% to 85% of the cases without the use of the port-based purging system. Port operation revealed excellent ergonomics and minimal blood loss.ConclusionsA novel cardioport system designed to prevent air entry and blood loss from transcardiac instrument introduction was shown to be an enabling platform for intracardiac beating-heart surgery. The port system improves safety and facilitates further development of complex instruments and devices for transcardiac beating-heart surgery.
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