  Thromboembolic complications remain a central issue in management of patients
on mechanical circulatory support. Despite the best practices employed in
design and manufacturing of modern ventricular assist devices, complexity and
modular nature of these systems often introduces internal steps and crevices in
the flow path which can serve as nidus for thrombus formation. Thrombotic
potential is influenced by multiple factors including the characteristics of
the flow and surface chemistry of the biomaterial. This study explored these
elements in the setting of blood flow over a micro-crevice using a
multi-constituent numerical model of thrombosis. The simulations reproduced the
platelet deposition patterns observed experimentally and elucidated the role of
flow, shear rate, and surface chemistry in shaping the deposition. The results
offer insights for design and operation of blood-contacting devices.
