Magnetically Levitated Blood Pumps

Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the world, with heart failure accounting for a significant portion of the deaths. Blood pumps serve as a form of treatment for heart failure that continues to grow in popularity. Of the blood pumps currently approved by the FDA, the majority integrate a magnetic levitation (MagLev) system. The incorporation of MagLev increases longevity of the pump and reduces blood damage. Research within the field of MagLev blood pumps predominantly focuses on novel features and implementation without much interest in understanding the core features of the devices.

Research in our lab is centered around the development and evaluation of MagLev blood pumps as mechanical circulatory support. Projects include the design of novel MagLev pump systems and investigation of the fluid mechanics, magnetic bearing behavior, and operating principles that influence pump performance and blood compatibility.