Calibration of interface properties and application to a finite element model for predicting vena cava filter-induced...

We present a computational framework that integrates experimental techniques and finite element modeling to calibrate material fracture parameters of the vena cava and the interaction properties between a retrievable filter (Günther Tulip) and the vena cava wall. The fitted parameters were then used to analyze the interaction of the inferior vena cava filter with the vena cava during the deployment process. An idealized cava finite element model was then developed including residual stresses and physiological pressure conditions. Filter deployment was simulated, and a comprehensive study of tissue-filter interaction was performed by cohesive surface modeling. Simulations predict that there are no fracture areas for either model, so we can conclude that there is no penetration of the anchor into the vena cava. This suggests there are other physiological situations, such as the Valsalva maneuver, which could produce this penetration observed on some patients.