Numerical simulation of the intra-aneurysmal flow dynamics

Intra-aneurysmal flow dynamics is analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively with numerical simulation technique, and presented for the future clinical application in embolizing cerebral aneurysms. From the volumetric data obtained by three-dimensional computed tomographic angiography, patient-specific vessel models were created for 16 middle cerebral artery aneurysms. Intra-aneurysmal flow dynamics was visualized and analyzed qualitatively, and the geometrical parameters of vessels and aneurysms that affect the intra-aneurysmal flow dynamics were determined quantitatively by correlation analysis. The flow velocity was delayed in the aneurysm cavity, especially at its tip where the rupture usually occurs. The intra-aneurysmal flow dynamics was considerably influenced by the geometrical parameters that are related to the width of the neck and the branching angle of larger branch artery. The intra-aneurysmal flow dynamics is complex, and the numerical flow simulations with patient-specific vascular models seems effective in understanding the flow dynamics and planning the endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms.