Finite element stress analysis of stenotic blood vessels

Flow and lipid deposition in stenoses produced in rat aortas has been investigated by applying a U-shaped clip to reduce the cross-sectional area. Placing the clip on the exterior wall not only alter the flow through the vessel but also introduces stresses and strains within the vessel wall. A finite-element model of the deformed vessel wall has been developed. Results from the model were correlated with the distribution of cell shapes and lipid deposition obtained in animal experiments. The occurrence of polygonal (rounded) cells was strongly correlated with regions of elevated longitudinal stress.<
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