Ramona Lorenz1, Christoph Benk2,
Jelena Bock1, Jan Korvink3, Michael Markl1
1Dept. of Diagnostic Radiology,
University Hospital, Freiburg, Germany; 2Dept. of Cardiovascular
Surgery, University Hospital, Freiburg, Germany; 3Dept. of
Microsystems Technology, IMTEK, Freiburg, Germany
In-vitro
model systems provide a useful tool for the systematic evaluation of
hemodynamic changes associated with geometric vascular modifications.
However, realistic in-vivo in-flow and boundary conditions are necessary for
accurate flow simulations. This paper presents a novel approach for an
in-vitro model setup which includes a pulsatile pump chamber in combination
with flexible and monitored pressure control using an adjustable mock loop to
simulate physiological pre- and after load conditions. In contrast to
measurements without pressure control an improved generation of qualitative
and quantitative flow characteristics compared to in-vivo flow conditions
could be achieved.