Descending aorta subject-specific one-dimensional model validated against in vivo data

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Aortic stiffness increases with age and risk factors, contributing to cardiovascular and cerebral mortality.
• Accurate assessment of aortic biomechanics is crucial for understanding cardiovascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a subject-specific, one-dimensional numerical model of the descending aorta.
• To assess the model's ability to predict hemodynamic parameters non-invasively.

Main Methods:

• A subject-specific 1D wave propagation model was created using patient-specific geometric and hemodynamic data.
• The model was validated against in vivo data from seven healthy volunteers using carotid tonometry and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR).

Main Results:

• Model responses to arterial alterations aligned with known physiological principles.
• Quantitative validation showed low root-mean-square errors for area (10±6%), velocity (11±3%), and flow rate (9±3%) compared to CMR data.
• Simulated proximal aortic pressure closely matched tonometric carotid pressure (5±2% error).

Conclusions:

• The developed model provides a robust and cost-effective method for estimating biomechanical and hemodynamic indices.
• This approach facilitates non-invasive, localized assessment of the aorta's function.
• The model shows potential for clinical applications in cardiovascular risk assessment.