Numerical Evaluation of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Utilizing Finite Element Method

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Computational Mechanics
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Numerical tools increasingly support medical evaluation and decision-making for complex cases.
• Finite Element Models (FEMs) are crucial for simulating circulatory system fluid and structural dynamics.
• FEMs can calculate risks associated with blood vessel function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a computational tool using the finite element method for evaluating stresses in abdominal aortic aneurysms.
• To provide data for creating patient-specific digital twins of aortas.
• To numerically assess rupture risk in abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Main Methods:

• Developed a computational tool based on the finite element method.
• Examined 12 distinct cases of aortas with abdominal aneurysms.
• Performed 3D reconstruction from DICOM files into surface models.
• Created a finite element material model to simulate aortic wall mechanical behavior.

Main Results:

• Quantified tension, strain, and displacement values through finite element analysis.
• Generated a rapid risk assessment for aortic rupture.
• Identified larger aneurysmatic regions as a key factor increasing rupture risk.

Conclusions:

• The developed FEM tool accurately simulates aortic mechanical behavior and quantifies biomechanical parameters.
• Patient-specific digital twins can be created using this approach.
• Risk assessment revealed that some cases with larger aneurysms have an over 90% risk of aortic rupture.