Risk of Rupture in AAA and Vulnerable Plaques: Patient Based FSI Simulation

Abstract

Two separate fluid structure interaction (FSI) simulations were performed: a patient-specific Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) geometry, and an idealized coronary vulnerable plaque (VP) geometry. VP FSI simulations were later performed in patient based geometries reconstructed from intravascular (IVUS) measurements. (AAA): The patient specific AAA FSI simulation was carried out with both isotropic and anisotropic wall properties. An orthotropic material model was used to describe wall properties, closely approximate experimental results [1]. Results show peak wall stresses are dependent on the geometry of the AAA and the region of highest stress corresponds to expected failure location. The ability to quantify stresses developing within the aneurysm wall based on FSI simulations will facilitate clinicians to reach informed decisions in determining rupture risk of AAA and the need for surgical intervention. (Vulnerable Plaque): To study the risk of rupture of a vulnerable plaque in an idealized coronary artery geometry, an FSI simulation was performed. This model of vulnerable plaque includes vessel wall with calcification spot embedded in the fibrous cap, and a lipid core. Identifying rupture risk, regions susceptible to failure and the contribution of the various components were studied. This work led to predicting the rupture risk in patient specific geometries. The results show the upstream side of vulnerable plaque fibrous cap has the highest stresses. The presence of the calcified spot is shown to enhance stresses within the fibrous cap, significantly contributing to its risk of rupture.