ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate a self-designed catheter pump by using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, so as to predict its hydraulic performance and risk of thrombosis formation. Methods The thrombosis prediction models proposed by Grigioni and Danny Bluestein were used. The shear stress and exposure time during platelet motion were calculated by CFD method, and parameters of platelet activation state (PAS) were obtained for prediction of thrombogenic performance. Results At the flow rate of 4 L/min and rotating speed of 10 000 r/min, the differential pressure of the pump reached 14.763 kPa and the hydraulic performance was proved to fit the requirement of left ventricular assist device. The PAS values of Grigioni model and Danny Bluestein model were 6.35×10-6 and 7.68×10-4,respectively, both at a very low level, indicating a low possibility of thrombus formation. Conclusions This study investigated the feasibility of thrombosis prediction based on simulation method and the predicted hydraulic performance and thrombosis will provide references for further design optimization.