ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the effect of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and aortic graft angle on hemodynamics of aortic valve. Methods Three models of aorta and aortic valve with 45°, 60° and 90° anastomosis angles between LVAD and aorta were constructed, and an in vitro pulsating table was built for in vitro experiments. Using particle image velocimetry (PIV) system, three moments in the cardiac cycle ( T1 systolic peak, T rapid closure, T3 diastolic peak), were selected to study the hemodynamic state of aortic valve. Results Velocity vector, vorticity and viscous shear stress were used to evaluate the effect of LVAD anastomosis angle on hemodynamics of aortic valve. During the period of rapid valve closure, with the increase of graft angle, the blood flow velocity near the valve wall, the average vorticity and the maximum viscous shear stress all increased. Conclusions When the graft angle is lower, the impact velocity of blood on the valve is smaller, and the shear force on the valve decreases, so that the valve is in a better hemodynamic environment. This study provides references for the selection of anastomotic angles in clinical operations.