Optimization of a left ventricular assist device using numerical simulation

The PUCA pump is a left ventricular assist device especially meant for a fast introduction by using minimal surgery. An extracorporeal located membrane pump is coupled to a transarterial catheter that enters the body via a superficial artery and ends in the LV. Pump efficacy is influenced by several pump parameters. To find the best efficacy, a numerical model of the PUCA pump coupled with the circulatory system can be used. For the PUCA pump, the best configuration is a stroke volume of 50 cc and pump: heart frequency of 1 : 2 that starts ejection at the beginning of diastole.