Abstract
A mathematical model of blood flow through an arterial vessel is presented and the wave propagation in
it is studied numerically. Based on the assumption of long wavelength and small amplitude of the
pressure waves, a quasi-one-dimensional (1D) differential model is adopted. It describes the non-linear
fluid-wall interaction and includes wall deformation in both radial and axial directions. The 1D model is
coupled with a six compartment lumped parameter model, which accounts for the global circulatory
features and provides boundary conditions. The differential equations are first linearized to investigate
the nature of the propagation phenomena. The full non-linear equations are then approximated with a
numerical finite difference method on a staggered grid.
Some numerical simulations show the characteristics of the wave propagation. The dependence of
the flow, of the wall deformation and of the wave velocity on the elasticity parameter has been
highlighted. The importance of the axial deformation is evidenced by its variation in correspondence
of the pressure peaks. The wave disturbances consequent to a local stiffening of the vessel and to
a compliance jump due to prosthetic implantations are finally studied.
Anno
2004
Autori IAC
Tipo pubblicazione
Altri Autori
Pontrelli G.
Editore
Gordon and Breach Science Publishers,
Rivista
Computer methods in biomechanics and biomedical engineering