Heart assist pumps, known as left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), are used either as a temporary solution before heart transplantation or as long-term therapy for patients with heart failure. Despite their technical sophistication, LVADs significantly alter the natural flow dynamics within the left ventricle, which can lead to various complications. To better understand blood flow in the heart with and without LVAD support, we conducted an experimental study using particle image velocimetry (PIV). In this study, we observed the flow of a blood-analog fluid under different heart rates and stroke volumes in a heart model. The PIV analysis yielded velocity fields and derived quantities that revealed distinct differences between the flow conditions in healthy and failing hearts. While LVAD support increases overall blood flow through the body, the associated changes in flow patterns are not entirely beneficial. Under certain conditions, they may increase the risk of thrombus formation or red blood cell damage (hemolysis). Our results suggest that operating the LVAD at a fixed rotational speed is not optimal; instead, the pump speed should be adjusted dynamically based on the patient’s physiological needs.
|
