Validation of blood flow computations using analytical, in vitro, and in vivo methods

摘要

Computational investigations of blood flow require validation using analytical solutions and in vitro and in vivo experimental methods. Analytical solutions to the Navier-Stokes equations are possible in only a few select cases with very special geometry and boundary conditions. Fortunately, a canonical solution for pulsatile flow does exist: the Womersley solution for fully developed pulsatile flow in a straight circular cylinder. This analystical solution is essential in assessig the accuracy of numerical methods and examining such important issues as spatial and temporal discretization errors. In vitro experimental investigations can be used to validate computational solutions for blood flow in rigid and deformable models of complex geometies. Detailed information on velocity fields can be obtained using Lser Doppler Anemometry (LDA) and Paricle Image Velocimetry (PIV). Although analytical and in vitro experimental methods are extremely important tools for validating numerical solutions, ultimately in vivo measurements, utilizing ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging, ust be utilized for validating predictions made with numerical methods.