Cutaneous integration of a new wireless transcutaneous energy transfer system for durable long-term ventricular assist device systems in an experimental pig model.

Abstract

Driveline infections remain a major complication of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) systems. This study evaluated the surgical implantation of a novel wireless transcutaneous energy transfer implant designed to eliminate driveline-associated infections by achieving durable cutaneous integration. Nine pigs were used across 4 trials to optimize implant geometry and surgical methods. Early prototypes caused skin necrosis due to excessive stretching, which was mitigated by increasing pocket size but led to seroma formation. A final implant design with reduced cross-sectional area and refined surgical approach eliminated both necrosis and seroma, achieving stable skin integration during a 14-day follow-up. Infections occurred in some cases, primarily attributed to limitations of the animal model. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of safe cutaneous integration of a wireless transcutaneous implant and establish the basis for long-term preclinical evaluation toward fully implantable ventricular assist device systems without percutaneous drivelines.