Artificial organs
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A pulsatility-based control algorithm with a self-adapting pulsatility reference value is proposed for an implantable rotary blood pump and is to be tested in computer simulations. The only input signal is the pressure difference across the pump, which is deduced from measurements of the pump's magnetic bearing. A pulsatility index (PI) is calculated as the mean absolute deviation from the mean pressure difference. ⋯ All the clinician needs to do is to select between the two operating modes. No other adjustments are required. The algorithm showed promising results which encourage further testing in vitro and in vivo.
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Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in ventricular assist devices (VADs) has been reported with rotary devices. The pathophysiological mechanisms and treatments are in evolution. We performed a retrospective review of GI bleeding episodes for all VADs implanted at our institution. ⋯ Anticoagulation was interrupted during bleeding episodes but successfully introduced post bleeding event. GI bleeding is a significant complication of VAD therapy. In this article, we discuss diagnosis and management options.