Numerical investigation of the flow induced by a transcatheter intra-aortic entrainment pump

TL;DR

This paper uses computational fluid dynamics to analyze the blood flow and associated risks of a transcatheter intra-aortic pump, highlighting potential damage and arterial wall stress at various rotational speeds.

Contribution

It provides detailed CFD analysis of blood damage and wall stress caused by the pump, informing safer design and operation parameters.

Findings

Blood damage risk increases at speeds above 12000 rpm.

Outflow jet induces high wall shear stress, risking arterial aneurysm.

Design improvements are needed to mitigate risks in prolonged use.

Abstract

This study evaluates the fluid dynamics inside and outside transcatheter blood pump positioned in the aorta. We focus on the pump's impact on blood component damage and arterial wall stress. CFD simulations were performed for rotational speeds ranging from 6000 to 15000 rpm, with a blood flow rate of 1.6 L/min. Results show that significant blood damage may occur at speeds as low as 12000 rpm, and the pump's outflow jet induces elevated wall shear stress, potentially leading to arterial aneurysms. These findings suggest the need for further design improvements to reduce risks when used in prolonged or transplant-related applications.