Investigation on hydrodynamic lubrication of bearings in a left ventricular assisted device

Formations of clots were found inside the hydrodynamic bearings of the left ventricular assisted devices (LVADs) and caused tremendous risks to the long-term use of these devices. For the hydrodynamic bearings used in the LVAD, not only the lubrication status but also the motion of the blood cells in the bearing will take great effect on the performance of the device. Based on the analysis of the hydrodynamic pressures distribution and the flowing trajectory of red blood cells in the lubrication film, the bearing is designed in a region where enough hydrodynamic pressure is generated to float the rotor to reduce the wear, and the entrainment of red blood cells in the gap of the bearing can be prevented to avoid the formation of clots.