More than six million people worldwide suffer from severe heart failure. For many, left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) can be lifesaving. However, implantation still carries significant risks, as it usually requires opening the sternum and the use of cardiopulmonary bypass.

The HeartGate system aims to significantly reduce these risks. The newly developed implantation kit enables the implantation of an LVAD without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. The system consists of a coring tool and an introducer sheath, which in combination allow controlled insertion of the LVAD with minimal blood loss.

HeartGate is being developed by an interdisciplinary team at the Department of Cardiovascular Surgery at the Medical Center – University of Freiburg. The aim is to make the procedure safer, shorten operating times, and, in the future, also treat patients who were previously not eligible for LVAD implantation.

Supported by ForTra, the project establishes the regulatory prerequisites for subsequent clinical application.