Optimizing distal and proximal splenic artery embolization with patient-specific computational fluid dynamics

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Splenic artery embolization (SAE) is a less invasive alternative to splenectomy for spleen injuries.
• Limited understanding exists regarding the hemodynamic principles governing SAE success.
• Preserving spleen function is a key goal of SAE.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the hemodynamic effects of proximal and distal embolization strategies in SAE.
• To utilize patient-specific computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for analyzing embolization.
• To explore how coil placement and particle characteristics influence embolization outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Construction of detailed 3D computer models of the aorta and visceral arteries.
• Patient-specific CFD simulations to analyze blood flow and pressure during embolization.
• Lagrangian particle tracking to study distal embolization dynamics.

Main Results:

• Collateral vessels play a vital role in maintaining splenic blood supply after proximal embolization.
• Coil placement significantly impacts distal splenic artery pressure.
• Particle size, release location, and timing are critical factors in distal embolization success.

Conclusions:

• Patient-specific CFD modeling can optimize SAE strategies.
• Strategic coil placement can effectively reduce distal pressure.
• Understanding embolization dynamics can improve patient outcomes and spleen preservation.