Company History

Novacor® LVAS

Product Enhancements

During the course of its clinical use and the experience gained, important enhancements to the Novacor® LVAS (PCq) have been approved in Europe and North America. These include:

PCq Pump/Drive Unit PCq Pump/Drive Unit
The PCq system exhibits significantly reduced acoustic noise emission and quieter operation achieved through:
  • Addition of vibration damping and isolation elements in the pump/drive unit
  • Refined Controller software, to optimize device energization
Modified ePTFE Inflow Conduits Modified ePTFE Inflow Conduits (available in 6 cm and 9 cm lengths)
Novacor® LVAS ePTFE Inflow Conduits have been enhanced with:
  • A polypropylene sheath, providing resistance to mechanical distortion
  • An apical cannula with increased polyester fabric for additional sealing capacity
  • Optimized multi-layer construction, for increased strength
Clinical data indicate that use of the ePTFE Inflow Conduit results in a significantly reduced rate of thromboembolic events.
Improved Power Packs Improved Power Packs
The power packs have been redesigned, incorporating nickel metal hydride cells. These packs offer the following benefits:
  • 40% decrease in total power pack weight, for improved recipient comfort
  • Two-hour increase in combined power pack capacity, for extended recipient mobility
  • Power pack cells have twice the life; cells and cables are replaceable to provide a substantial reduction in cost of ownership
Advanced Power-pack Charger Advanced Power Pack Charger
An Advanced Charger recharges the Power Pack batteries. It has been enhanced with:
  • Automated built-in power pack testing and calibration, for reduced maintenance and easier recipient operation
  • 40% size reduction for greater convenience; no fan, for quiet operation
Enhanced Cables and Connectors Enhanced Cables and Connectors
Power connectors and cables have been redesigned for improved handling. Features include:

  • Easier connect and disconnect for simplified recipient use
  • Positive locking eliminates inadvertent detachment
  • Increased cable flexibility adds to recipient comfort
Upgraded Software Upgraded Software
Monitor and controller software has been enhanced with:
  • Trend displays and an improved data handling for comprehensive monitoring and data storage
  • New setup facility provides guidance and automatic parameter settings for simplified initial operation
  • New automatic trigger mode requires even less operator interaction