A complete mock circulation loop for the evaluation of left, right, and biventricular assist devices

Abstract

A new mock circulation loop was developed to replicate the necessary features of the systemic and pulmonic circulatory systems, including pulsatile left and right ventricles coupled with vascular compliances and resistances. A brief description of the mock loop construction is provided before results are presented confirming the recreation of perfusion rates and pressures found in the natural systemic and pulmonic vascular trees for a normal and failing heart at rest. This rig provides the ability to evaluate the hemodynamic effect of left, right, and biventricular assist devices in vitro. The small and compact mock circulation rig has the potential to reduce device evaluation costs by simulating the natural circulatory system, thus providing valuable device performance feedback prior to expensive in vivo animal trials.