The Hattler Catheter Respiratory Assist Device consists of a Catheter and a drive console. The catheter consists of a bundle of polypropylene hollow fibers (approximately 1000) in 30cm or 35cm length surrounding a helium filled balloon. The balloon is similar to an Intra-Aortic Balloon, however, it is pulsed at 300 beats per minute, while IABP typically operate at 120 bpm. The hollow fibers are similar to fibers utilized in external oxygenators for cardio-pulmonary bypass. No device exists on the market in which fibers surround a balloon, and no device exists on the market in which the hollow fiber bundle is designed to be inserted into the venous system, i.e., the vena cava. External oxygenators are designed to be used in an extracorporeal circulatory loop.
The Hattler Catheter drive console provides the power to drive the helium filled balloon while removing excess oxygen and carbon dioxide from the venous system via the catheter.
