Magnet Sales were gifted with the task of selecting and testing precision magnets to be used in a ventricular assist device (VAD). Calon Cardio, working out of Swansea University’s Institute of Life Science, approached MSS looking for guidance with the magnetic design element of the VAD. Due to the nature of the project, the tolerances of the physical and magnetic properties of the magnet needed to be very precise. Our experts were able to offer precision magnets that will see the pump begin trials next year. The magnet itself is used in the electric motor which will drive the VAD or ‘MiniVAD’ once it is implanted into the heart.

Although heart pumps have already been well established, the actual handling of the blood still proves to be a problem. Experts currently see issues as the pumps can break up red blood cells, white blood cells and damage proteins in the bloodstream. However, this new design is a step forward in the medical implant sector as it was created to treat blood extremely gently as to not damage any blood cells or protein.

Mr Stuart McConchie, chief executive of Calon Cardio, said that if they can demonstrate the reduction of adverse events then not only will the patients have a better quality of life but won’t have to visit the hospital as frequently, therefore, reducing the costs of health services as well as bettering the patients’ experience.

“That means the NHS, for example, or a healthcare provider in other countries like the United States, don’t have as much cost in treating the patient who has a ventricle assist device and the benefit to society comes with that.”

If you would like to hear more about this story, the BBC has covered it here