3-DIMENSIONAL BLOOD-FLOW IN BIFURCATIONS - COMPUTATIONAL AND EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSES AND CLINICAL-APPLICATIONS

In this report, the issues discussed al a multidisciplinary symposium on blood flow in bifurcations are summarized. Topics addressed are (1) flow analysis in in vitro models, using visualization and laser Doppl er anemometer techniques, and numerical models; (2) the influence of ( physiological) factors, such as vessel wall distensibility and vessel geometry, on the flow field: (3) the noninvasive assessment of arteria l wall properties in humans, and (4) the noninvasive determination of flow patterns in humans, paying special attention to ultrasound techni ques and magnetic resonance imaging. It was emphasized that it is of u tmost importance to obtain more detailed information. preferably three -dimensional, about flow fields in bifurcations. not only from a diagn ostic point of view but also to get more insight into the relation, if any, between flow patterns and atherogenesis. It was agreed that plaq ue geometry and dynamics should be studied in more detail, especially in relation to plaque fissuring and rupturing. There is a need for the noninvasive assessment of wall shear rate and, hence, to be able to c alculate wall shear stress. because these parameters have been shown t o be important determinants of endothelial cell function.