Density of states in a split superconducting vortex

Based on an analysis of a generalized xy spin model, it has been suggested recently that vortices with split cores may be realized in the cuprates. In the present work we solve the Gor'kov equations for a d-wave BCS superconductor in the presence of an isolated vortex with a split core and thereby we determine the local tunneling density of states in the vicinity of such a vortex. We find only marginal differences between the densities of states in the core regions of usual and split vortices. Therefore the experimental observation of unusual vortex core shapes cannot be interpreted as a straightforward consequence of vortex splitting.