On Oct. 8, MicroMed Cardiovascular (www.micromedcv.com), manufacturer of the HeartAssist 5™ left ventricular assist device (LVAD), was selected as one of the Top 50 Emerging Companies in the nation’s largest venture capital competition, the Sixth Annual Pitching Across America competition.
“More than 100 VCs and Angel Investors voted us as one of the most promising companies and technologies out there,” said Bill Birdsall, MicroMed CEO. “The HeartAssist 5 is designed to help the heart’s failing left ventricle by pumping up to 10 L/min of blood to the body.”
Judging criteria consisted of several key points including: current stage of development (customers, revenue), competitive advantage, need in the marketplace and whether the company is "VentureWorthy."
The HeartAssist 5 pump weighs 92 grams and measures 2.8 x 1.2 inches. Because of its miniature size, it is one of the few LVADs that can be implanted above the diaphragm, adjacent to the heart. The HeartAssist 5 is the only LVAD with a precise, direct flow measurement system.