Thoratec HeartMate III, Instructions For Use Manual, Page: 34 / 458

2 System Operations
2-6 HeartMate III Left Ventricular Assist System Instructions for Use
Driveline damage due to wear and fatigue may occur in both the externalized (Modular Cable)
and implanted (Pump Cable) portions of the lead. Damage to the conductors within the Driveline
may or may not be preceded by visible damage to the outer layer of the Driveline.
Driveline damage may be evidenced by the following:
• A Driveline Power Fault, Driveline Comm Fault, or Communication Fault alarm on the
System Controller
• Transient alarms due to short or open circuits, often associated with movement of the patient or
the lead
• Fluid leakage from the external portion of the Pump Cable
• Cessation of pumping
X-ray images and System Controller log files are useful to assess the extent and location of the
damage. If the Driveline or Driveline conductors are damaged internal to the patient’s body, the
Pump should be replaced as soon as possible. If It has been determined that the damage has been
detected in the Modular Cable, it can be replaced. Refer to
Replacing the Modular Cable on
page 2-51 for the procedure for exchanging the Modular Cable.
Pump Motor Power
The Left Ventricular Assist Device Motor is powered through the System Controller by one of three
sources:
• Power Module
• Mobile Power Unit
• 2 HeartMate 14 Volt Lithium-Ion Direct Current (DC) Batteries
Note: The Backup System Controller is charged every six months.
Acceptable Operating Conditions
For safe and optimal use of HeartMate system components, follow the operating guidelines listed
in
Table 2.1 page 2-7.
WARNING !
If the Driveline or Driveline connector appears damaged, contact Thoratec Corporation for
assistance. Refer to page iii
for Thoratec Corporation contact information.
CAUTION !
Operating system components outside of the environmental parameters listed in
Table 2.1 may affect device operation or result in equipment failure.