Hemodynamic consequences of thoracic artificial lung attachment configuration: a computational model

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Computational Modeling

Background:

• Acute and chronic pulmonary dysfunction necessitate advanced treatment options.
• A thoracic artificial lung (TAL) is under development for pulmonary support.
• TALs can be integrated with natural lungs (NLs) in various configurations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To computationally model the hemodynamic effects of different TAL attachment configurations.
• To evaluate TAL integration under normal and pathological conditions.
• To identify optimal TAL configurations for maximizing blood flow and tolerability.

Main Methods:

• Developed a computational model of the pulmonary and systemic circulations, heart, and TAL.
• Incorporated physiological feedback mechanisms (sympathetic nervous system, renin-angiotensin system, renal control).
• Validated the model using porcine experimental data and simulated normal and four disease states.

Main Results:

• A hybrid configuration (100% TAL, 40% NL flow) demonstrated maximal blood flow (3.6-4.6 L/min) to the TAL.
• This hybrid configuration was predicted to be well-tolerated by the right ventricle.
• Reducing graft anastomosis "minor loss" resistances improved hemodynamics across all configurations.

Conclusions:

• The hybrid TAL configuration offers the most promising hemodynamic profile for artificial lung support.
• Minimizing resistance at vascular connections is crucial for optimizing TAL performance.
• Computational modeling provides valuable insights into the integration of artificial organs with the circulatory system.