Increasing the pulsatility of continuos flow VAD: comparison between a valvulated outflow cannula and speed modulation by simulation

To investigate by a lumped parameter model the feasibility of increasing the pulsatility of a continuous flow VAD, implanting an active valvulated outflow cannula and to compare the results with the haemodynamic outcome given by speed modulation methods. The concomitant presence of speed modulation and the active valvulated outflow conduit is also simulated. A lumped parameter model was adopted. VAD was modeled starting from its pressure flow characteristics with a second order polynomial equation. The valvulated outflow conduit was modeled as an active resistance described by a square function. Starting from pathological condition we simulated: VAD; VAD and valvulated outflow conduit in copulsation, counterpulsation and asynchrony work with the heart; VAD and active valvulated outflow tube and speed modulation. Copulsation 1:1 and asynchrony 0.3 s valve close-0.7 s valve open configurations maximised the haemodynamic benefits with the highest increment in pulsatility. The valvulated outflow conduit causes a decrement of the left ventricular unloading and of VAD flow that can be counteracted by increasing the VAD speed without affecting pulsatility. The concomitant use of the speed modulation and the active valvulated outflow conduit can further increase the pulsatility without altering left ventricular unloading and VAD flow. The valvulated outflow tube provide similar increase in pulsatility to speed modulation method but causes a decrement of left ventricular unloading and VAD flow that can be counteracted increasing the VAD speed or allowing a partial support. A valvulated outflow tube can be potentially applied to all continuous flow VADs.