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Acoustic analysis of a mechanical circulatory support
Laila Hubbert1, Per Sundbom, Matthias Loebe
1Clinical Department of Cardiology at the Heart Center, University Hospital of Linkoping, Linkoping, Sweden; Department of Medicine & Health, Linkoping University, Linkoping, Sweden.
Artificial Organs
|December 31, 2013
Summary
Acoustic monitoring of HeartMate II left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) can detect pump thrombosis. Changes in sound signals correlate with artificial and blood clots, offering a potential tool for device surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Technology
- Acoustic Signal Analysis
Background:
- Mechanical circulatory support, including left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), is advancing but faces complications like pump thrombosis.
- Pump thrombosis can lead to severe adverse events, necessitating effective monitoring strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an experimental model for detecting thrombosis in the HeartMate II LVAD using acoustic signal analysis.
- To identify acoustic changes indicative of clots in the inflow, outflow, and pump housing.
Main Methods:
- Utilized modern telecommunication techniques to register and analyze acoustic signals from the HeartMate II LVAD in a mock loop system.
- Simulated clot formation by sequentially narrowing tubing and passing artificial and blood clots through the pump.
- Analyzed frequency spectrum changes (0-23,000 Hz) in response to varying pump speeds and simulated obstructions.
Main Results:
- Pump speed alterations significantly changed the acoustic fingerprint at specific frequencies (P<0.005).
- Narrowing outflow tubing mimicked clot formation and caused significant spectral changes (P<0.005) in specific frequency regions (P1, P2, R1).
- Passage of artificial and blood clots through the pump resulted in significant acoustic alterations (P<0.005), particularly in lower and higher frequency ranges.
Conclusions:
- Acoustic monitoring of LVAD pump sounds demonstrates potential as a valuable tool for surveillance and early detection of thrombosis.
- The study successfully correlated specific acoustic signal changes with simulated and actual clot presence in the HeartMate II LVAD.
- Further research into acoustic fingerprinting could enhance the safety and efficacy of mechanical circulatory support systems.
