1D simulation of blood flow characteristics in the circle of Willis using THINkS

Abstract

One-dimensional (1D) simulation of the complete vascular network, so called THINkS (Total Human Intravascular Network Simulation) is developed to investigate changes of blood flow characteristics caused by the variation of CoW. THINkS contains 158 major veins, 85 major arteries, and 77 venous and 43 arterial junctions. THINkS is validated with available in vivo blood flow waveform data. The overall trends of flow rates in variations of the CoW, such as the missing anterior cerebral artery (missing-A1) or missing posterior cerebral artery (missing-P1), are confirmed by in vivo experimental data. It is demonstrated that the CoW has the ability to shunt blood flow to different areas in the brain. Flow rates in efferent arteries remain unaffected under the variation of CoW, while the flow rates in afferent vessels can be subject to substantial changes. The redistribution of blood flow can cause particular vessels to undergo extra flow rate and hemodynamic stresses.

Keywords:

• Circle of Willis
• blood flow
• 1D circulation model

Acknowledgment

The authors would like to acknowledge the Translational Research Development Grants from the Office of Research Affairs at Wright State University, and the continued support of Premier Health with furthering the academic understanding with neuroscience.