In a pipeline summary by GlobalData and published by the Medical Device Network, the McGowan Institute was listed alongside the University of Pittsburgh and ALung Technologies as “key players in the development of artificial lungs.”
William J. Federspiel, PhD, McGowan core faculty, is one of the founders of ALung Technologies, a Pittsburgh-based medical start-up company. ALung is now a part of LivaNova PLC.
ALung received FDA approval to market its artificial lung system, the Hemolung Respiratory Assist System, for treatment of severe asthma, cystic fibrosis, and as a bridge to organ transplant. In general, artificial lungs can temporarily take over the function of lungs in people with respiratory failure. The Hemolung system was developed at the McGowan Institute by a team of researchers led by Dr. Federspiel.
Currently, only 23 artificial lung devices are in various stages of development globally; six of these are in inactive stages of development.
The Medical Device Network noted the innovations from McGowan, Pitt, and ALung utilize new approaches, processes and technologies for treating, diagnosing, and managing disease. These innovations ultimately lead to reduced healthcare costs and better patient outcomes.