Assessment of carotid stenosis as a source of reflected pressure waves using a transmission line model

Summary form only given, as follows. A transmission-line model is developed to assess the effects of carotid stenosis on the arterial pressure wave. In particular, the stenosis as a source of reflection is examined. The arterial system from the heart to the carotid bifurcation is modeled with a graded stenosis, representing a progressive atherosclerotic lesion simulated at the bifurcation. Within the model, changes in compliance due to both aging and the simulated stenosis and effects of back pressure on the heart can be considered. The resulting arterial pressure wave is investigated using spectral analysis. Information from the model can be used to help explain the underlying mechanisms of atherosclerosis along with providing theoretical support for experimental data. Preliminary results are presented.