Finite element modelling of pulsatile blood flow in idealized model of human aortic arch: study of hypotension and hypertension (Q764232)

Summary: A three-dimensional computer model of the human aortic arch with three branches is reproduced to study the pulsatile blood flow with a finite element method. Specifically, the focus is on variation of the wall shear stress, which plays an important role in the localization and development of atherosclerotic plaques. The pulsatile pressure pulse is used as boundary condition to avoid flow entry development, and the aorta walls are considered rigid. The aorta model along with boundary conditions is altered to study the effects of hypotension and hypertension. The results illustrated low and fluctuating shear stress at outer and inner walls of the aortic arch, proximal wall of branches, and entry region. Despite the simplification of the aorta model, rigid walls and other assumption results displayed that hypertension causes lowered local wall shear stresses. It is the sign of an increased risk of atherosclerosis. The assessment of hemodynamics shows that under the flow regimes of hypotension and hypertension, the risk of atherosclerosis localization in human aorta may increase.