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Updated: Mar 10, 2026
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Lumped-Parameter and Finite Element Modeling of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Published on: February 13, 2021
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A Physical Heart Failure Simulation System Utilizing the Total Artificial Heart and Modified Donovan Mock Circulation
Jessica R Crosby1, Katrina J DeCook1, Phat L Tran1,2,3
1Biomedical Engineering GIDP, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ.
Artificial Organs
|December 10, 2016
Summary
A new mock circulation system was developed to simulate heart failure and test mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices. This platform reliably reproduces heart failure hemodynamics and demonstrates the effectiveness of MCS in improving patient conditions.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Research
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- The increasing diversity of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) systems necessitates advanced simulation platforms.
- Existing mock circulation systems may lack the robustness to accurately replicate complex physiological and pathophysiological states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel mock circulation system for simulating heart failure and evaluating MCS devices.
- To assess the system's capability in reproducing clinically relevant hemodynamic profiles of heart failure.
- To demonstrate the platform's utility in testing the efficacy of an implanted left ventricular assist device (LVAD).
Main Methods:
- Integration of the SynCardia Total Artificial Heart with a modified Donovan Mock Circulation System.
- Configuration of the system to operate at normal and reduced outputs to simulate different physiological conditions.
- Modeling of heart failure by inducing specific hemodynamic changes such as elevated left atrial pressure and reduced aortic flow.
- Inclusion of a HeartMate II LVAD to evaluate hemodynamic improvements.
Main Results:
- The platform successfully reproduced key heart failure hemodynamics, including elevated left atrial pressure (+112%) and reduced aortic flow (-12.6%).
- Demonstrated blunted Starling-like behavior and increased afterload sensitivity in the heart failure model.
- Pressure-volume loops confirmed enhanced afterload sensitivity and diminished Starling-like behavior.
- Addition of a HeartMate II LVAD led to significant hemodynamic improvements.
Conclusions:
- The developed mock circulation system provides a reliable platform for simulating heart failure.
- It serves as a valuable tool for training healthcare professionals in MCS device management.
- The system facilitates inter-device comparisons and research for advancing safe and effective MCS therapy.
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