Improving blood flow for patients with heart assist devices
Selection of Flow Modulation Protocols for Patients on Continuous Flow Ventricular Assist Devices (CF-VADs)
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-10812239
This study is looking at ways to improve blood flow for patients with continuous flow heart pumps by adding a gentle pulsing effect, which could help prevent problems like bleeding and other complications.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10812239 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how to enhance blood flow in patients using continuous flow ventricular assist devices (CF-VADs) by introducing artificial pulsatility. The team has developed a vascular pulse perfusion model to study the effects of different flow modulation protocols on human aortic endothelial cells. By simulating normal and diminished pulsatile flow, the research aims to identify optimal flow patterns that could reduce complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding and arteriovenous malformations. The findings could lead to improved management strategies for patients relying on CF-VADs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who are currently using continuous flow ventricular assist devices.
Not a fit: Patients who are not using CF-VADs or those with other unrelated cardiovascular conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of serious complications for patients with heart assist devices.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using flow modulation is innovative, similar studies have shown promising results in improving outcomes for patients with cardiovascular devices.
Where this research is happening
BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM — BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SETHU, PALANIAPPAN — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- Study coordinator: SETHU, PALANIAPPAN
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.