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Aortic Interventions are high on the list of critical vascular interventions. Within the vast range of Aortic Conditions, Aortic dissections (AD) are particularly risky, with high morbidity and mortality rates. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can provide insight into the progression of AD and aid clinical decisions; however, oversimplified modelling assumptions and high computational cost compromise the accuracy of the information and impede clinical translation. To overcome these limitations, we developed a patient-specific CFD multiscale approach coupled to Windkessel boundary conditions and accounting for wall compliance, an entirely new approach in the literature of AD.
In this project, this novel computational framework will be used in conjunction with a unique experimental setup to assess bloodflow, pressure and other heamodynamic markers of interest of 3D printed, patient-specific Dissected Aortae. This setup is unique in the UK and has been the object of a BHF grant.
The idea is that for each patient, a computational model will be created based on in-vivo data and validated via the in-vitro setup. After initial calibration of the simulation model, different interventional strategies will be simulated in-silico, creating unique patient scenarios including the potential formation of thrombus, in order to provide clinicians with guidance about possible interventional strategies for each patient. After a final interventional strategy has been defined a final run of the in-vitro setup for each patient will be performed mimicking the chosen intervention, in order to provide clinicians a comprehensive and confident analysis for that specific patient.
This PhD project will create a unique coupled simulation environment to simulate type B Aortic Dissections in-vitro and in-silico to provide clinical support for clinicians.
Supervisors:
Vanessa Diaz
Shervanthi Homer-Vanniasinkam
Stavroula Balabani