Chemical engineering methods in better understanding of blood hydrodynamics in atherosclerosis disease

Abstract Background/Objective : Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death in the 21st-century society. One of the most common cardiovascular diseases is atherosclerosis, where the accumulation of plaque in blood vessels leads to blockages, increasing the risk of mechanical hemolysis or embolism. Methods : Recent advancements in clinical imaging technologies, including 4D MRI, allow for non-invasive assessments of both blood vessel conditions and blood flow hydrodynamics. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of the cardiovascular system have also contributed to a deeper understanding of heart and blood vessel function. In addition to CFD simulations, 3D printing is increasingly used to create realistic models of the cardiovascular system based on medical imaging data, which can be used for further study and testing. Results : The integration of modern medical imaging techniques with CFD simulations offers new opportunities in diagnosing and planning treatment for cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis. CFD simulations provide detailed insights into blood flow dynamics within arteries affected by plaque build-up, enabling a more precise understanding of disease progression. In this study, CFD results were validated against micro – particle image velocimetry (µPIV) measurements performed on 3D-printed models of the left coronary artery bifurcation. The comparison showed strong agreement between CFD simulations and PIV measurements, confirming the accuracy of CFD models in replicating real-world blood flow conditions. These results highlight the potential of combining 4D MRI, CFD simulations, and 3D printing for enhancing cardiovascular research and improving clinical outcomes. Conclusion : Modern imaging and CFD simulations offer effective non-invasive methods for diagnosing atherosclerosis-related complications, improving the accuracy of treatment planning.