Stenotic interaction on haemodynamic parameters in double stenoses

This article may be used for research, teaching and private study purposes. Any substantial or systematic reproduction, redistribution , reselling , loan or sub-licensing, systematic supply or distribution in any form to anyone is expressly forbidden. The publisher does not give any warranty express or implied or make any representation that the contents will be complete or accurate or up to date. The accuracy of any instructions, formulae and drug doses should be independently verified with primary sources. The publisher shall not be liable for any loss, actions, claims, proceedings, demand or costs or damages whatsoever or howsoever caused arising directly or indirectly in connection with or arising out of the use of this material. A numerical analysis of blood flow in a rigid artery has been performed to observe the variations in flow pattern and haemodynamic parameters under the influence of multiple (double) stenoses. The interspacing distance, degree of stenotic severity and Reynolds number of flow have been varied. It is found that two stenoses interact when the interspacing distance is lower than a critical value that corresponds to the redevelopment length of fully developed flow after the proximal stenosis. In the case of non-interacting stenoses the haemodynamic parameters, like the peak centreline velocity (representing the peak systolic velocity ratio in medical term), the maximum wall shear stress, region of low shear stress and the irrecoverable pressure drop at the stenosis site, repeat themselves at each individual stenosis. However, when the stenoses interact hydrodynamically because of their proximity, the parameters behave differently, which can lead to a different haemodynamic profile in the arteries and pose difficulties in their pathological interpretation. This work evaluates the influence of double stenoses on the variations in the key haemodynamic features under different degree of stenoses and interspacing distance between the stenoses. 1. Introduction Arterial stenosis refers to the localised narrowing of arterial passages. This can be attributed to the swelling of the endothelial wall due to plaque deposition, when the associated disease is termed atherosclerosis. A stenosed artery reduces the maximum flow of blood through it by offering more resistance to the flow. As a result, the tissues and cells supplied by the artery become short of oxygen or ischemic. The degree of stenosis is quantified by the diametric occlusion in the artery as a percentage of the unobstructed diameter. Pressure losses in stenosed arteries become significant for severe stenosis, i.e. when the …