Mathematical modelling and simulation of hemodynamic alterations in atherosclerotic arteries

Abstract Atherosclerosis‐induced arterial stenosis significantly alters hemodynamic conditions, increasing the risk of vascular complications such as rupture and thrombosis. In this study, we develop and analyze a comprehensive mathematical model to investigate steady‐state blood flow in arteries with asymmetric stenosis using MATLAB's bvp4c boundary value solver. The model incorporates elastic arterial wall behaviour, variable blood density effects (to simulate anaemia and polycythemia), and multiple stenotic regions to simulate complex atherosclerotic conditions. By comparing healthy and diseased arteries, we compute critical hemodynamic parameters such as pressure drop, wall shear stress (WSS), hoop stress, Reynolds number, and rupture risk index. The results indicate a higher pressure gradient, elevated rupture probability, and localized peaks in WSS and Reynolds number near plaque regions. A 3D visualization of WSS versus hoop stress versus position reveals stress concentration zones, potentially correlating with plaque vulnerability. Additionally, the effect of varying blood density demonstrates how systemic conditions can exacerbate flow disturbances and increase risk. These findings provide a quantitative framework for assessing the biomechanical environment under atherosclerotic conditions and may contribute to improved diagnostics and predictive tools for cardiovascular disease progression.