Related Experiment Videos
Computerised visualisation from images of blood flow through frog mesenteric microvessels with multiple complexities.
1Biomedical Engineering Division, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, India.
Medical & Biological Engineering & Computing
|January 1, 2003
Summary
Blood flow in frog microvessels shows complex patterns. Changes in flow velocity and cellular concentration are influenced by vessel geometry, impacting wall thickness.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Biophysics
- Microcirculation
Background:
- Understanding blood flow dynamics in microvessels is crucial for physiology.
- Complex geometries like loops and bends significantly alter flow patterns.
- Cellular concentration distribution is influenced by flow characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze blood flow and cellular concentration in a frog mesenteric microvessel with complex geometry.
- To investigate the relationship between flow parameters, vessel geometry, and wall thickness.
Main Methods:
- Video-microscopic system for recording blood flow.
- PC-based image processing for analysis.
- Image velocimetry and axial tomography techniques were employed.
Main Results:
- Low Reynolds number (0.033) and varying Dean numbers (0.004-0.007) indicated secondary flow in bends.
- Outward shifts in velocity and concentration profiles were observed.
- Vessel wall thickness increased significantly (2-3 times) in high shear stress regions.
Conclusions:
- Complex microvessel geometry, including loops and bends, alters blood flow and cellular distribution.
- Increased wall thickness in high shear stress areas is a key adaptation.
- Findings provide insights into microcirculation mechanics and physiological responses.