Patient-specific simulation of carotid artery stenting using computational fluid dynamics

Abstract

An image-based computational methodology to predict the outcome of carotid artery stenting procedures is presented. Anatomically realistic models are reconstructed from contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography images using deformable models. Physiologic flow conditions are obtained from phase-contrast magnetic resonance angiography data. Finite element flow calculations are obtained before and after modifying the anatomical models in order to simulate stenting procedures. The methodology was tested on image data from a patient with carotid artery stenosis. Significant changes in the blood flow through the common carotid and internal carotid artery were found after conducting a "virtual stenting" intervention. Pending experimental validation, this methodology may potentially be used to plan and optimize vascular stenting procedures on a patient-specific basis.