ECCOMAS 2024

Fsi Modelling Of The Heart Valves In A Patient Specific Geometry By Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics

  • Laha, Sumanta (University of Manchester)
  • Fourtakas, Georgios (University of Manchester)
  • Das, Prasanta Kumar (IIT Kharagpur)
  • Keshmiri, Amir (University of Manchester)

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Cardiovascular diseases stand as leading causes of mortality, with valvular issues emerging as their precursor. Conducting in-vivo experiments on human heart valves poses considerable challenges. On the other hand, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) coupled with fluid-structure interaction (FSI) proves to be a cost-effective and efficient means to explore hemodynamics in both natural and artificial heart valves, offering valuable insights for diagnostics and clinical applications. In this study, we have developed a hemodynamic model for natural and mechanical heart valves using smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH). Despite the proven suitability of SPH techniques, there has been limited effort to date [1], particularly in simulating heart valve hemodynamics and modelling valve movement. A companion paper from the same group pioneered in this field [2]. The mesh-less, particle-based nature of our model enhances the realism of heart valve simulations, eliminating many limitations and increasing clinical applicability. This research aims to provide realistic physiological information on normal and malfunctioning heart valves, aiding medical practitioners in diagnosis and therapy. Additionally, the incorporation of patient-specific vascular geometry, derived from MRI datasets, adds complexity to the model, enabling a more authentic representation of aortic anatomy. Beyond diagnostic implications, the outcomes of this work can contribute to the refinement and development of implants with improved physiological compatibility. Overcoming challenges posed by complex geometry, deformable boundaries, and conventional FSI, this study uniquely employs SPH, presenting a promising alternative to conventional finite volume techniques in cardiovascular modelling. Notably, our patient-specific SPH simulations demonstrate reasonable conformity with actual flow rates, as evidenced by 4D MRI data and finite volume simulations [3]. This comprehensive application of SPH, coupled with innovative formulations for wall shear stress, opens new avenues in the realm of cardiovascular modelling.