Left Ventricular Heart Assist Device using MC and ECG Feedback

Abstract

This paper aims to design and implement left ventricular heart assist device (LVAD) system. The main part of the system is a centrifugal pump that pushes blood from the left ventricle to aorta. It is controlled by Arduino Microcontroller (MC). LVAD should be placed between left ventricle and aorta of the heart using a percutaneous lead which is connected to the system controller. This system is considered as closed loop system where it is synchronized with the patient's electrocardiogram (ECG), which provides information about the patient’s physiological conditions. A Brushless DC Motor is used to meet the required speed and blood flow rate according to ECG feedback signals. A prototype is designed, built and tested. The testing data are confirmed the results of the mathematical analysis. The system is constructed and programmed to operate automatically in safe mode in case of suddenly occurring failure. All data are monitored and displayed on LCD screen. The system is programmed using C language and fed by using two DC batteries, which placed on either side of the patient in specific holder.