Modelling and simulation of flow and agglomeration in deep veins valves using discrete multi physics

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Fluid Dynamics
• Computational Biology

Background:

• Deep vein valves are crucial for unidirectional blood flow, preventing reflux.
• Understanding venous hemodynamics is essential for preventing thrombotic events.
• Previous models often simplify the complex multi-physics of blood flow in valves.

Purpose of the Study:

• To model hemodynamics in flexible deep vein valves using discrete multi-physics.
• To investigate the role of valve leaflet properties on blood flow characteristics.
• To determine the primary drivers of cell agglomeration within venous valves.

Main Methods:

• Developed a discrete multi-physics model for deep vein valve hemodynamics.
• Implemented an agglomeration algorithm to simulate blood cell accumulation.
• Performed computer simulations on various valve typologies.

Main Results:

• Valve leaflet rigidity and length significantly influence mechanical stress and blood stagnation.
• Shorter, rigid leaflets may reduce stagnant blood volume, potentially lowering thrombosis risk.
• Cell agglomeration in venous valves is primarily driven by flow stagnation, not mechanical stress.

Conclusions:

• Valve design parameters, specifically leaflet characteristics, are critical for optimizing venous blood flow.
• Minimizing stagnant blood volume through valve design is a key factor in thrombosis prevention.
• Flow stagnation is the dominant factor influencing cell aggregation in venous valve environments.