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CFD analysis of a Mag-Lev ventricular assist device for infants and children: fourth generation design
Amy L Throckmorton1, Alexandrina Untaroiu
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23284-3015, USA. althrock@vcu.edu
Insights
A new pediatric ventricular assist device (PVAD) shows promise for children with heart failure. Numerical simulations reveal the PVAD4 design reduces blood stress and damage compared to previous models.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Research
- Pediatric Medical Devices
Background:
- Pediatric heart failure necessitates advanced mechanical circulatory support.
- Limited viable mechanical assist devices are available for pediatric patients in the US.
- Existing devices face challenges in long-term efficacy and patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and develop an improved axial flow pediatric ventricular assist device (PVAD).
- To evaluate the performance and hemocompatibility of the novel PVAD4 design through numerical simulations.
- To compare the PVAD4 design against its predecessor, the PVAD3, focusing on fluid dynamics and blood damage.
Main Methods:
- Iterative design process culminating in the PVAD4 model.
- Steady flow numerical simulations to assess pump performance.
- Blood damage analysis using computational fluid dynamics to evaluate hemocompatibility.
Main Results:
- The PVAD4 design demonstrated enhanced pressure generation capabilities (50-95 mm Hg).
- Simulations indicated lower fluid stress levels in the PVAD4 compared to the PVAD3.
- Blood damage analysis revealed a reduction in mean and maximum damage index for the PVAD4.
Conclusions:
- The PVAD4 represents a significant advancement in pediatric ventricular assist device technology.
- Numerical findings suggest improved hemocompatibility and performance, paving the way for a superior pump design.
- Further development and testing are warranted to translate these findings into clinical application for pediatric heart failure patients.
Abstract:
Thousands of pediatric patients suffering from heart failure would benefit from longer-term mechanical circulatory support. There are, however, few support systems available in the United States as viable mechanical assist alternatives for these patients. Therefore, we have designed and developed an axial flow pediatric ventricular assist device (PVAD) with an impeller that is fully suspended by magnetic bearings. This blood pump is designed to generate 0.5-4 L/min for pressure rises of 50-95 mm Hg over 6,000-9,000 rpm. We have performed four major design iterations. Building upon the third design phase, we made improvements to create the PVAD4 model. Numerical simulations of the PVAD4 under steady flow simulations were performed to compare the predictions of the latest PVAD4 model to the earlier PVAD3 design. The PVAD4 design resulted in lower fluid stress levels and an increase in pressure generation. A blood damage analysis was also completed. As compared with the earlier PVAD3 design, the damage analysis of the PVAD4 indicated a reduction in the mean and maximum damage index for the new design. All of these numerical findings are encouraging and demonstrate progress toward achieving a superior pump design.
