Flow in an axisymmetric convergent: evaluation of maximal wall shear stress

The maximal wall shear stress (MWSS) in the convergent part of a stenosis i s computed as a function of characteristic geometrical parameters (stenosis degree and length), of the entry velocity profile and of flow Reynolds num ber by means of the Interactive Boundary-Layer (IBL) theory, in the simplif ied case where the flow is axisymmetric and stationary. The independence of the MWSS on the entry velocity profile is showed. A heuristic analysis, fo llowed by regression analysis of the numerical results, allows drawing out the simple dependence of the MWSS on the other parameters, all measurable i n clinical practice. The so obtained relationship extends the results found in the literature, achieved by resolution of Navier-Stokes equations for p articular geometrical characteristics. (C) 2000 Academie des sciences/Editi ons scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.