Analysis of local hemodynamics in complex aneurysms: an effect of the vessel arising from the dome or the neck

Abstract

Assessment of rupture risk for intracranial aneurysms (IA) is a particular challenge in cases of so-called complex aneurysms due to their variable morphometric characteristics. Arterial branch arising from the dome or the neck of IA is one of the least explored features of complex aneurysms. The methods of computational fluid dynamics may be valuable to determine the influence of arterial branches of IA on local hemodynamics. To analyze local hemodynamics in IA with arterial branch arising from the cupola or the neck depending on the structure of the aneurysm and blood flow rate in the parent vessel. CT angiography data of 4 patients with IA were estimated in this study. Modifications of the baseline 3D models of the aneurysms resulted 12 patient-specific models included into analysis. Hemodynamic calculations were made by using of ANSYS Workbench 19 software package. Wall shear stress (WSS) was characterized by the most significant variability, especially in case of sidewall aneurysms. Small cross-sectional area of additional branch in relation to the neck of IA was not followed by considerable changes of blood flow patterns inside IA after «virtual» removal of the vessel. Otherwise, the intensity of flows was drastically reduced. Simulation of high inlet flows demonstrated substantial variation of WSS in the area of jet. Additional arterial branch arising from the dome or the neck of IA significantly influences local hemodynamics. This influence depends on the localization of IA in relation to the parent vessel and the diameter of additional arterial branch.