Finite element analysis of three-dimensional vortical flow structure and topology inside a carotid bifurcation model

Abstract

Three-dimensional analysis of blood flow in the human carotid bifurcation model has been made using the streamline upwind Petrov-Galerkin finite element model. The primary aim of this study is to gain some insights into complex hemodynamics based on the topology theory. In addition, the preferential sites of atherosclerosis in the carotid model are predicted by virtue of the simulated critical lines.

Keywords:

• Carotid bifurcation
• Three-dimensional
• Streamline upwind Petrov-Galerkin
• Topology theory
• Critical lines

Acknowledgements

Financial support provided by the National Science Council under Grant NSC94-2611-E-002-021- is gratefully acknowledged.

Notes

^¶ Tel.: [phone]. Ext. 7130. Fax: [phone]. [email protected]

Additional information

Notes on contributors

S. F. Tsai

¶ ¶ Tel.: [phone]. Ext. 7130. Fax: [phone]. [email protected]