Biofluid Dynamics for Biomedical Devices & Products

Streamline biomedical product development with advanced computational fluid dynamics analysis

Exponent's biofluid dynamics experts have extensive experience in biomedical and life sciences product development. We can deploy computational fluid dynamics (CFD) within the framework of other computer-aided engineering tools (e.g., reverse engineering/domain definition, multi-physics modeling, additive manufacturing for prototypes, and computer-aided manufacturing and testing) to better understand and/or predict fluid behavior and transport phenomena related to a subject medical device. 

We have used these tools in numerous biomedical and life sciences product development applications, such as: 

• Evaluating the efficacy of designs before prototyping 

• Reducing the volume of in vitro tests with blood and other biological fluids 

• Minimizing the need for preclinical testing 

• Assessing the product function at and beyond the established design boundaries and to elucidate failure mechanisms during root cause analysis 

Blood flow and fluid path analysis

• Hydrodynamics and thermal simulation of cardiac ablation catheters 

• Evaluation of localized shear stress in the fluid path to avoid shear-induced hemolysis 

• Identification of stagnant regions and regions of secondary flow where blood flow that recirculates locally may cause shear-induced trauma, hypoxemia, accumulation of toxic agents, and localized thrombus formation 

Cardiovascular implants

• Assessment of dead zones, hemolysis levels, and pressures on the valve leaves in artificial heart valves and devices (percutaneous (TAVI/TAVR) and surgically placed) 

• Evaluation of cardiovascular and peripheral stents (self-expanding and balloon expanding) 

• Characterization of gas transport efficiency in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation devices 

Flow within containers and devices

• Conducting handling and drainage analysis of flexible containers during use 

• Reconstitution flow and foam generation analysis during the preparation of high-risk pharmaceuticals (oncolytics) or biologics presented in glass vial dose form 

Hemostats, surgical sealants, and glues

• Modeling delivery physics and risks, such as gas embolism in pneumatically assisted spray devices 

• Evaluating sealing capabilities of biomaterials 

Drug delivery systems

• Performance evaluation and optimization of devices including inhalation delivery systems such as propellant-metered dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers, and nebulizers, as well as diffusion-based drug delivery 

Manufacturing and distribution processes

• Evaluating manual and automated filling lines to reduce splashing, foaming, and control of liquid and air-space tolerances, including form-fill-seal environments 

• Modeling of lyophilization process phases