Research in Hydrodynamic Problems in Blood Flow

摘要

Results of studies of blood flow with particular application to the effects of artificial pumping devices are presented. Hydrodynamic analyses were made, and were confirmed empirically by means of a physical 'circulation' model of the heart and of the aorta. The 'windkessel' theory of aortic function is corrected for dynamic impedance of the artery. The effectiveness of arterio-arterial pumps to assist the heart is appraised. Hydrodynamic considerations impose limitations on the design of intra-aortic balloon pumps: A balloon of simple design will inflate first at the ends and may occlude the artery so as to limit its pumping effectiveness. A method of controlling the inflation of the balloon is suggested and calculated aortic pressures for a balloon with controlled inflation are presented. (Author)