Numerical methods for hemolysis and thrombus evaluation in the percutaneous ventricular assist device

Background A percutaneous ventricular assist device (pVAD) is an effective method to treat heart failure, but its complications, mainly hemolysis and thrombus formation, cannot be ignored. Accurate evaluation of hemolysis and thrombus formation in pVAD is essential to guide the development of pVAD and reduce the incidence of complications. Methods This study optimized the numerical model to predict hemolysis and thrombus formation in pVAD. The hemolysis model is based on the power law function, and the multi‐component thrombus prediction model is improved by introducing the von Willebrand factor. Results The error between the numerical simulation and the hydraulic performance experiment is within 5%. The numerical results of hemolysis are in good agreement with those of in vitro experiments. Meanwhile, the thrombus location predicted by the numerical model is the same as that found in the in vivo experiment. Conclusion The numerical model suggested in this study may therefore accurately assess the possible hemolytic and thrombotic dangers in pVAD, making it an effective tool to support the development of pVAD. A hemolysis model for the pVAD has been improved through previous studies and the in vitro hemolysis experiment. Meanwhile, the improved 11‐component thrombus simulation model well predicts the location of thrombus generation in the pVAD. The numerical models help evaluate the hemodynamic performance of the pVAD during the design stage.