Related Experiment Videos
Numerical solution for blood flow in a centrifugal ventricular assist device
H G Wood1, J Anderson, P E Allaire
1Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville 22903, USA. hwood@virginia.edu
The International Journal of Artificial Organs
|February 2, 2000
Summary
Computational fluid dynamics modeling aids in designing a novel magnetic bearing centrifugal pump for ventricular assist devices. This approach predicts minimal hemolysis and no flow stagnation, ensuring safe and efficient blood flow.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Devices
- Computational Fluid Dynamics
Background:
- Development of a small centrifugal pump for human implantation as a ventricular assist device.
- The pump utilizes magnetic bearings for full support, aiming for improved reliability and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to model blood flow within the ventricular assist device (VAD).
- To aid in the design optimization of the Continuous Flow Ventricular Assist Device (CF3) pump.
- To predict blood flow characteristics, including shear stress and stagnation regions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized commercial CFD software (AEA Technology, UK) to model blood flow.
- Developed computational grids for key flow regions: the shrouded impeller and clearance areas.
- Formulated and solved equations of motion for blood flow within the pump.
Main Results:
- Numerically evaluated flow rates and head rise trends closely matched experimental measurements.
- Predicted shear stress levels indicate insignificant hemolysis, suggesting blood compatibility.
- Identified no regions of flow stagnation, reducing the risk of thrombosis.
Conclusions:
- CFD modeling provides a viable and effective method for designing and optimizing VAD pumps.
- Numerical simulations can predict pump performance and blood-compatibility parameters before physical prototyping.
- The developed design approach facilitates improved efficiency in future ventricular assist device iterations.