Computational Analysis of Intra-Ventricular Flow Pattern Under Partial and Full Support of BJUT-II VAD

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Engineering
• Biomedical Fluid Dynamics
• Medical Device Hemodynamics

Background:

• Partial support is a novel and clinically applied mode for left ventricular assist devices (LVADs).
• The precise hemodynamic mechanisms of LVAD partial support on intra-ventricular flow remain unclear.
• Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for optimizing LVAD therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of different LVAD support levels on intra-ventricular flow patterns.
• To evaluate hemodynamic effects, including wall shear stress and flow indices, under simulated conditions.
• To determine the benefits of partial support mode on left ventricular hemodynamics.

Main Methods:

• A patient-specific left ventricular geometric model was created from CT data.
• Fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulations were performed for heart failure, partial support, and full support conditions.
• Analysis included blood flow patterns, wall shear stress (WSS), time-average wall shear stress (TAWSS), oscillatory shear index (OSI), and relative residence time (RRT).

Main Results:

• The BJUT-II LVAD significantly altered intra-ventricular flow patterns based on support level.
• Partial support enhanced the intra-ventricular vortex, while full support eliminated it.
• High OSI and RRT regions shifted from the septum wall to the cardiac apex under partial support.

Conclusions:

• The support level of the BJUT-II LVAD critically influences intra-ventricular flow dynamics.
• Partial support enhances intra-ventricular vortex and favorably relocates adverse hemodynamic regions.
• Partial support mode of the BJUT-II LVAD may offer greater benefits for intra-ventricular flow patterns.