Hemodynamic consequences of artificial lung attachment in a porcine model

A thoracic artificial lung (TAIL) is implanted in a porcine model. Selective banding switches amongst three attachment modes: TAL in parallel with natural lungs (NL), in series with NL or in an intermediary hybrid mode. The protocol progresses from baseline through parallel and hybrid configurations to series then back through the same configurations to baseline. In the progression towards series resistance of the combined natural/artificial pulmonary system rises causing an increase in pulmonary artery pressure and a decrease in cardiac output. Right ventricular power is elevated with TAL attachment.