Role of computational modeling in thoracic aortic pathology: a review

Thoracic aortic diseases are life-threatening conditions causing significant mortality and morbidity despite advances in diagnostic and surgical treatments. Computational methods combined with imaging techniques provide quantitative information of disease progression, which may improve clinical treatments and therapeutic strategies for clinical practice. Since hemodynamic and wall mechanics play important roles in the natural history and progression of aortic diseases, we reviewed the potential application of computational modeling of the thoracic aorta. We placed emphasis on the clinical relevance of these techniques for the assessment of aortic dissection, thoracic aortic aneurysm, and aortic coarctation. Current clinical guidelines and treatment are also described.