S021011 Investigation of the Durability Test Method of Continuous-flow Ventricular Assist Devices under Pulsatile Flow

Abstract

Durability test mock circulations for a newly developed axial-flow ventricular assist device with hydrodynamic bearings have been developed to start a 2-year durability test under pulsatile flow condition. The mock circulation with a diaphragm pump was adjusted to achieve a pulsatile flow rate of 0 L/min in the diastolic phase and 9.5 L/min in the systolic phase filled with saline added with glycerin as a blood analog fluid. The 268-days pre-test for the axial-flow ventricular assist pump was conducted with the mock circulation. As a result, although the test has maintained the pump flow rate, head, fluid temperature and density, pulse rate of the diaphragm pump, a slight Fe component was solute into the working fluid. Therefore, the mechanical heart valve was substituted for the check valve for the mock circulation.