Quantitative Hemodynamics in Aortic Dissection: Comparing in vitro MRI with FSI Simulation in a Compliant Model

TL;DR

This study compares in vitro 4D-flow MRI, catheter pressure measurements, and CFD FSI simulations in a compliant aortic dissection model, demonstrating good agreement and potential for improved treatment planning.

Contribution

It introduces a tunable experimental setup combining patient-specific compliant models with advanced imaging and simulation for aortic dissection analysis.

Findings

Good agreement between MRI, pressure measurements, and CFD FSI results.

Feasibility of a patient-specific compliant model for hemodynamic studies.

Potential to improve prognosis through integrated imaging and modeling.

Abstract

The analysis of quantitative hemodynamics and luminal pressure may add valuable information to aid treatment strategies and prognosis for aortic dissections. This work directly compared in vitro 4D-flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), catheter-based pressure measurements, and computational fluid dynamics that integrated fluid-structure interaction (CFD FSI). Experimental data was acquired with a compliant 3D-printed model of a type-B aortic dissection (TBAD) that was embedded into a physiologically tuned flow circuit. In vitro flow and pressure information were used to tune the CFD FSI Windkessel boundary conditions. Results showed very good overall agreement of complex flow patterns, true to false lumen flow splits, and pressure distribution. This work demonstrates feasibility of a tunable experimental setup that integrates a patient-specific compliant model and provides a test bed for exploring critical imaging and modeling parameters that ultimately may improve the prognosis for patients with aortic dissections.