Hydrodynamic analysis of the miniaturized hemofilter for a wearable ultrafiltration device.

Background/aims: Using a small wearable hemofiltration device, heart failure (HF) patients may have the possibility of eliminating acute hemodynamic changes and the freedom from spending many hours attached to a large stationary treatment system.

Methods: We developed a miniaturized hemofilter for a vest-type wearable ultrafiltration device for the treatment of overhydration and congestive HF. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of the newly developed hemofilter based on dynamic CT imaging and in vitro evaluation of hydrodynamic properties.

Results: The dynamic CT imaging technique showed development of uniform flow distribution and effective bubble removal in the hemofilter. Hydrodynamic performance of the hemofilter was also acceptable with a stable pressure drop in the blood compartment and ultrafiltration profiles in the intended operating ranges for the treatment of congestive HF patients.

Conclusions: The newly developed miniaturized hemofilter for a wearable ultrafiltration device meets the technical requirements of wearable medical devices and its structural design enables uniform blood flow distribution and stable hydrodynamics during operation.