Percutaneous double lumen cannula for right ventricle assist device system: A computational fluid dynamics study

Objectives Our goal is to develop a double lumen cannula (DLC) for a percutaneous right ventricular assist device (pRVAD) in order to eliminate two open chest surgeries for RVAD installation and removal. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance, flow pattern, blood hemolysis, and thrombosis potential of the pRVAD DLC. Methods Computational fluid dynamics (CFD), using the finite volume method, was performed on the pRVAD DLC. For Reynolds numbers <4000, the laminar model was used to describe the blood flow behavior, while shear-stress transport k-ω model was used for Reynolds numbers >4000. Bench testing with a 27 Fr prototype was performed to validate the CFD calculations. Results There was <1.3% difference between the CFD and experimental pressure drop results. The Lagrangian approach revealed a low index of hemolysis (0.012% in drainage lumen and 0.0073% in infusion lumen) at 5 l/min flow rate. Blood stagnancy and recirculation regions were found in the CFD analysis, indicating a potential risk for thrombosis. Conclusions The pRVAD DLC can handle up to 5 l/min flow with limited potential hemolysis. Further modification of the pRVAD DLC is needed to address blood stagnancy and recirculation.