Pulsökning

Pulsökning, also known as pulse augmentation, is a technique used in mechanical circulatory support systems, specifically in pulsatile assist devices. It is a method of augmenting the patient's natural pulse by adding a secondary pulse. This is achieved by a pump that generates a periodic increase in blood flow, synchronized with the patient's own heartbeat. The goal is to improve cardiac output and tissue perfusion.

In practice, a pulsatile assist device, often a ventricular assist device (VAD), is implanted to assist the heart's pumping function. During diastole, when the natural heart muscle is relaxed, the assist device fills with blood. As the heart contracts (systole), the assist device ejects blood into the circulatory system, effectively adding to the blood flow generated by the native heart. This combined output results in a larger, more forceful pulse than the heart could achieve on its own.

The effectiveness of pulsökning is often assessed by measuring hemodynamic parameters such as stroke volume, cardiac output, and systemic vascular resistance. It can be particularly beneficial for patients with severe heart failure, where the native heart is unable to adequately perfuse the body. While it aims to mimic natural physiology, the augmented pulse can differ in magnitude and timing compared to a healthy heart's beat. Research continues to explore optimal strategies for pulsökning to maximize patient outcomes and minimize potential complications.