TCT 2024 | NyokAssist® Makes Global Debut as a Novel Interventional Ventricular Assist Device

From October 27–30, 2024, the 36th annual Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) conference was held in Washington, D.C., bringing together global leaders in cardiovascular medicine to share advances in research, technology, and clinical practice.

As part of the scientific program, Dr. Rui Wang from Zhongshan Hospital (Fudan University) presented the international debut of NyokAssist®, a next-generation interventional ventricular assist device (iVAD) co-developed with magAssist. This presentation marks a significant milestone in the development of minimally invasive cardiac support technologies.

NyokAssist®: A Minimally Invasive Approach to Ventricular Support

NyokAssist® is a percutaneous ventricular assist device developed through close collaboration between clinicians and engineers. Featuring a 9Fr insertion profile that expands to 24Fr operational diameter, the device delivers an average flow of 3.5 L/min and a peak flow of 5 L/min. Its external motor design helps minimize the risks commonly associated with internal motor heating, such as hemolysis and thrombosis.

The device's flexible outflow segment allows for smooth navigation across the aortic valve and minimizes interference with valve function during the cardiac cycle. This feature enhances safety and ease of use in complex interventional procedures.

Engineering for Safety and Performance

NyokAssist® was developed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to optimize hydraulic performance and hemocompatibility. The design eliminates low-velocity flow zones and ensures uniform shear stress distribution, helping reduce blood cell damage and improving procedural efficiency. This engineering-driven approach supports safe and effective short-term mechanical circulatory support for high-risk patients.

Early Clinical Findings from a Randomized Trial

Dr. Wang presented preliminary results from an ongoing prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial evaluating NyokAssist® in patients undergoing high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (HRPCI).

The study enrolled patients with an average left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 31.7%. The device demonstrated reliable performance, with an average support time of 97 minutes. Patients experienced stable hemodynamics throughout the procedure, with no major infections or MACCE events, and were successfully weaned from the device post-procedure.

These early outcomes highlight NyokAssist®'s potential to offer effective hemodynamic support during complex interventions while maintaining a favorable safety profile.

A Step Toward Global Innovation in Cardiovascular Support

The invitation to present at TCT 2024 reflects growing global interest in emerging cardiovascular technologies and the value of international collaboration in advancing patient care. NyokAssist® represents a novel addition to the field of mechanical circulatory support and contributes to a broader vision of improving outcomes for high-risk cardiac patients worldwide.

About TCT

The Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) conference is the world's premier educational forum for interventional cardiovascular medicine, organized annually by the Cardiovascular Research Foundation (CRF). Since its launch in 1988, TCT has grown from a 150-person meeting to an international platform that attracts thousands of physicians, scientists, and innovators to present breakthrough research and explore the latest medical technologies that improve survival and quality of life for patients with heart and vascular disease.