Computer simulation of hemodynamic parameter changes by mechanical ventilation and biventricular circulatory support

When a Bi-Ventricular Assist Device (BVAD) is used in conjunction with mech anical ventilation (MV) of the lungs with positive intrathoracic pressure ( Pt), the latter influences hemodynamics. The aim of our study was to assess the simultaneous influence of BVAD and MV on hemodynamics. We assumed vent ricular pathological conditions as reduced elastances and increased rest vo lumes. Peripheral systemic arterial resistance was assumed to have differen t values. Data were obtained by computer simulation. Trends in main hemodyn amic variables were compared with clinical data from literature. Simulation showed that systemic venous, pulmonary arterial and left atrial pressures are very sensitive to Pt (-2 to 5 mmHg).