Comparison of LVAD Flow Estimation and Ultrasonic Flow Measurement in Pigs.

This article compares the estimated and measured flow rates of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) in pigs. The LVADs often use an algorithm to estimate the flow rate based on motor current, rotational speed, and pre-set viscosity. However, recent devices have also incorporated ultrasonic sensors to measure the flow rate. The study found that the estimated flow rate was greater than the measured flow rate, with a flow overestimation of 1.05 L/min or 21% at a physiological flow rate of 5 L/min. The accuracy of flow estimation was improved when considering hemodynamic and laboratory parameters in addition to pump parameters. [Extracted from the article]