Hemodynamics of slip surfaces for thrombosis control in implanted cardiovascular devices

Percutaneous medical devices are preferred for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases due to their minimal intervention compared to surgery. However, complications such as thrombosis remain significant challenges. This study aims to investigate the hemodynamic effects of slip surfaces on pacemaker leads and coronary stents using computational fluid dynamics under physiological conditions. Two computational models were developed: a venous anatomical model with a pacemaker lead and a coronary artery model with a stent. Slip boundary conditions were applied to these devices, and we quantitatively analyzed critical hemodynamic parameters, including wall shear stress (WSS) and residence time (RT), which are associated with thrombosis and restenosis. The simulation results indicated that slip surfaces significantly improved these hemodynamic parameters. In the pacemaker model, slip surfaces increased WSS on the vessel wall in the region of interest by up to 1.17-fold and reduced RT by 41%. In the stent model, areas with low WSS decreased by up to 52%, while high RT regions decreased by 62%. Furthermore, the distance between the lead and the vessel wall in the pacemaker model was found to be a critical local variable affecting hemodynamics, indicating that slip surfaces may serve as a viable alternative where positional adjustments are clinically constrained. Similarly, in the stent model, slip surfaces reduced recirculation and moderated abnormal cellular activity. These effects are critical for preventing restenosis. These findings provide a foundation for developing more durable percutaneous medical devices, with potential economic benefits arising from reduced device-related complication rates and further extended device lifespan.