Validation of a fluid-structure interaction numerical model for predicting flow transients in arteries

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Computational Fluid Dynamics
• Cardiovascular Mechanics

Background:

• Fluid-structure interaction (FSI) is crucial for understanding blood flow dynamics in arteries.
• Existing FSI models often lack rigorous validation, limiting prediction accuracy.
• Accurate FSI models are needed for predicting blood flow transients in compliant vessels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively validate a two-way coupled FSI numerical model for predicting flow transients in compliant conduits like arteries.
• To assess the model's accuracy against analytical solutions and experimental data.
• To confirm the model's capability in predicting complex phenomena like Poisson coupling effects.

Main Methods:

• Development of a two-way coupled FSI numerical model.
• Validation using analytical solutions.
• Experimental validation using polyurethane mock arteries.
• Comparison of flow parameters including wave speeds, wall deformations, frequency, and fluid velocity.

Main Results:

• Excellent agreement (over 95%) between numerical predictions, analytical solutions, and experimental data.
• Accurate prediction of pressure and axial stress wave speeds.
• Precise simulation of wall deformations, oscillating frequency, and fluid velocity.
• Successful prediction of Poisson coupling effects in unsteady flows, previously only achievable analytically.

Conclusions:

• The validated FSI numerical model accurately predicts flow transients in compliant vessels.
• The model provides a reliable tool for analyzing blood flow behavior in arteries.
• This validated model enhances the accuracy and trustworthiness of FSI simulations in cardiovascular research.