Evaluation and optimization of interventional blood pump based on hydraulic performances and hemocompatibility performances

This study was designed to investigate the effects of hemodynamic environment and design factors on the hydraulic performance and hemocompatibility of interventional blood pumps using computational fluid dynamics methods combined with specialized mathematical models. These analyses assessed how different hemodynamic environments (such as support mode and artery size) and blood pump configurations (including entrance/exit blade angles, rotor diameter, blade number, and diffuser presence) affect hydraulic performance indicators (rotational speed, flow rate, pressure head, and efficiency) and hemocompatibility indicators (bleeding, hemolysis, and thrombosis). Our findings indicate that higher perfused flow rates necessitate greater rotational speeds, which, in turn, reduce both efficiency and hemocompatibility. As the artery size increases, the hydraulic performance of the pump improves but at the cost of worsening hemocompatibility. Among the design parameters, optimal configurations exist that balance both hydraulic performance and hemocompatibility. Notably, a configuration without a diffuser demonstrated better hydraulic performance and hemocompatibility compared to one with a diffuser. Further analysis revealed that flow losses primarily contribute to the degradation of hydraulic performance and deterioration of hemocompatibility. Shear stress was identified as the major cause of blood damage in interventional blood pumps, with residence time having a limited impact. This study comprehensively explored the effects of operating environment and design parameters on catheter pump performance using a multi-faceted blood damage model, providing insights into related complications from a biomechanical perspective. These findings offer valuable guidance for engineering design and clinical treatment.