BLOOD PUMP ROTOR BEARINGS

摘要

A bearing assembly for use in a blood pump includes a first component that has a convex bearing surface and a first outer surface proximate the convex bearing surface. The bearing assembly includes a second component that a concave bearing surface and a second outer surface proximate the concave bearing surface, the concave bearing surface being configured to receive the convex bearing surface. A plurality of grooves are defined through the convex bearing surface and first outer surface or through the concave bearing surface and the second outer surface.

主权项

1. A method of supporting an impeller in a blood pump, the method comprising,
supporting an impeller within a blood flow channel of a blood pump via a bearing, the bearing having a first bearing surface and a second bearing surface that opposes the first bearing surface, wherein the impeller is positionable within the blood flow channel so that the first bearing surface and the second bearing surface are separated by an interface region; passing a flow of blood through the blood flow channel so that blood at least partially surrounds the first bearing surface and the second bearing surface; passing blood through the interface region by rotating the impeller within the blood flow channel; and flowing blood along at least one void in at least one of the first bearing surface and the second bearing surface.