Thermal Analysis of a Transcutaneous Energy Transfer System for a Left Ventricular Assist Device

This study deals with the thermal analysis of a transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) system, based on the magnetic resonant coupling technology, to wirelessly power a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). The transmitting planar coil is placed on the skin, just in front of the subcutaneously implanted receiving planar coil. The TET system permits to eliminate the infection due to the exit site of the percutaneous driveline cable that connects the LVAD with the external power supply and control system. Since the LVAD continuously requires high power (typically around 5 W as average value), the thermal aspects must be carefully kept under control. Aim of this paper is an extensive thermal analysis to properly design a suitable TET system.