Simulation of arterial pulse curves in elastic tubes and a carotid preparation

Abstract

Results of Doppler sonographic examination of the arteries in the neck are not completely comparable to angiographical findings, because the application of the Doppler probe is not standardised and angiography does not demonstrate the exact vascular morphology. To experimentally correlate the Doppler-findings with morphology, a flow rig was constructed that generated within elastic tubes as well as human carotid artery specimens all types of human arterial pulse curves (e.g. subclavian or internal carotid artery). This was achieved by taking into account the principles of pulse wave propagation and reflection in vivo. A degassed aqueous suspension of amylum maidis was used as circulating medium. This flow rig allows the evaluation of the diagnostic criteria of Doppler spectrum analysis, such as peak frequencies and spectral broadening. Testing the characteristics of Doppler equipment is another useful application.