A Novel Numerical Study on the Development and Implementation of a Physiological Control Strategy for HeartMate 3 LVAD.

Abstract

Purpose: With the rising prevalence of heart disease and the limited availability of heart transplants, the demand for Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) is growing. While LVADs significantly improve the quality of life for heart failure patients, conventional models operate at a fixed speed, failing to adapt to varying blood flow demands. The Power Ratio Control (PRC) method offers a promising approach to adjusting blood flow according to activity levels dynamically, improving LVAD adaptability. This research investigates the application of PRC to enhance LVAD performance.

Method: To the best of our knowledge, this study presents the first implementation of PRC on the HeartMate 3. We also develop a model to incorporate clinically relevant parameters and peripheral components into an advanced model. This framework simulates real-world conditions, integrating dynamic factors like preload, contractility, and heart rate variations to evaluate the device's performance.

Results: Results show that PRC significantly improves HeartMate 3's dynamic response to physiological changes, allowing it to mimic the behavior of a healthy heart closely. Under PRC, the LVAD achieves better fluid responsiveness, stable cardiac output (CO), and efficient adaptation to varying activity levels. These findings highlight the potential clinical benefits of PRC, offering a more personalized approach to heart failure management.

Conclusion: This research represents a significant advancement in LVAD technology, pioneering the use of PRC in the HeartMate 3 and enhancing modeling accuracy. These innovations underscore the potential for adaptive control strategies to improve LVAD performance, paving the way for broader future advancements in mechanical circulatory support.