In vitro ultrasonic imaging of flow patterns in a left ventricular assist device

Diagnostic ultrasound imaging systems are used without Doppler to visualize, in vitro, the flow patterns within a blood sac from a pneumatic left ventricular assist device (LVAD). The circulatory system of the LVAD uses aerated tap water, which also serves as a contrast medium for ultrasound imaging. A specialized flow visualization chamber enabling imaging in three orthogonal planes was constructed. A piston pump connected the chamber by one port drives the LVAD hydraulically. Complex fluid motion including vortices is visualized directly during filling and emptying.<>