Effects of arterial port design on blood flow distribution in hemodialyzers

Abstract

Background/Aims: Blood flow profiles in fiber bundles depend on the design of the arterial port and affects the biocompatibility of the hemodialyzer. We analyzed the effects of arterial port design on blood flow distribution in fiber bundles using nonintrusive imaging techniques. Methods: The velocity fields in arterial ports and the hemodynamics in fiber bundles were analyzed for hemodialyzers with different configurations using particle image velocimetry and perfusion computed tomography. Results: In a hemodialyzer with standard arterial ports, high blood flow profiles in the central and peripheral regions and low blood profiles in the middle region were developed due to jet flow and vortices around the jet. In a hemodialyzer with spiral arterial ports, higher flow profiles were developed due to the central vortices that decrease perfusion into the fiber bundles. Conclusion: The arterial port design of hemodialyzers should be optimized such that jet flow and vortices do not impair dialysis efficiency and biocompatibility. Copyright © 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel.