Right Heart Flow Dynamics with Mechanical Circulatory Support of the Pulmonary Circulation

Right ventricular assist device (RVAD) is a mechanical support that helps the heart to pump blood for patients with severe right heart failure. However, patients receiving an RVAD are at risk of blood clot formation which can lead to serious issues. This thesis aimed to understand how the RVAD affects the blood flow patterns within the right heart and predict the risks of blood clot formation. The thesis found that the RVAD surgical implantation technique can have an influence on the risk of blood clot formation, and careful consideration should be taken during implantation to improve patient outcomes.