Analysis of Operating Modes for Left Ventricle Assist Devices via Integrated Models of Blood Circulation

Abstract

Left ventricular assist devices provide circulatory support to patients with end-stage heart failure. The standard operating conditions of the pump imply limitations on the rotation speed of the rotor. In this work we validate a model for three pumps (Sputnik 1, Sputnik 2, Sputnik D) using a mock circulation facility and known data for the pump HeartMate II. We combine this model with a 1D model of haemodynamics in the aorta and a lumped model of the left heart with valves dynamics. The model without pump is validated with known data in normal conditions. Simulations of left ventricular dilated cardiomyopathy show that none of the pumps are capable of reproducing the normal stroke volume in their operating ranges while complying with all criteria of physiologically feasible operation. We also observe that the paediatric pump Sputnik D can operate in the conditions of adult circulation with the same efficiency as the adult LVADs.