An Image-Based Computational Model of the Newborn Cardiovascular System with Term and Preterm Applications

Abstract

Computational modelling is a well-established tool for understanding cardiovascular physiology, yet very few models of the neonatal circulation have been developed. Babies born small or early suffer from a range of problems, including cardiovascular instability, and monitoring their haemodynamics in acute care settings remains challenging. We aimed to develop a computational model of the neonatal circulation, customisable for the preterm circulation, where fetal shunts may still be open. Ultrasound imaging of the heart and arterial structure (vessel diameter) and function (Doppler flow) was collected for a term and a preterm baby. A 0D bond graph model of the newborn cardiovascular system was developed which is parameterised using patient-specific arterial measurements and included patent fetal shunts unique to the preterm circulation. This open-source cardiovascular model of the neonatal circulation is readily individualised using image-based anatomical measurements, realistic in its blood pressure and flow predictions, fully conservative for mass and energy and adaptable to the unique circulatory conditions of early life.