How turbulence affects blood in heart support devices
Impact of turbulence on blood in mechanical circulatory support
This study looks at how turbulence in blood flow affects patients with heart or lung failure who use special devices to help their hearts, focusing on how this turbulence might lead to bleeding problems, even if they aren't on blood thinners.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10861763 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of turbulence on blood flow in patients using mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices, which are critical for treating heart or lung failure. It focuses on understanding how turbulence contributes to bleeding disorders, particularly acquired von Willebrand syndrome, and how it affects platelet function. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to identify alternative pathways that lead to bleeding complications, even in patients who are not receiving anticoagulation therapy. The study employs advanced biomedical engineering techniques to analyze blood flow dynamics and their effects on blood components.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients with heart or lung failure who are receiving mechanical circulatory support and may be experiencing bleeding complications.
Not a fit: Patients who are not using mechanical circulatory support devices or do not have bleeding disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management of bleeding complications in patients using mechanical circulatory support devices.
How similar studies have performed: While the effects of shear stress on blood have been studied, this research explores a novel aspect of turbulence that has not been extensively tested in similar contexts.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bark, David — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Bark, David
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.