A simulation study of external counterpulsation.

To study the haemodynamic effect of external counterpulsation, a computer model has been extended based on our previous work. Using this model, computer simulations have been performed on following aspects: the relationship between blood flow distributions and the control scheme; counterpulsation with and without buttock balloons; effects of duration and time intervals for sequential pulsing; and the potential to use a performance index for the optimal control of this assist device to the failing heart. The results indicate that effective assistance can be achieved by a proper setting of the control scheme. The results also show that this device is effective to improve the circulation status of other organs in addition to the heart. Simulation results agree well with the clinical data.