Variability of 3D arterial geometry and dynamics, and its pathologic implications

Issue title: Workshop: Breaking Symmetry in Haemodynamics, London, UK, 23–24 April 2001

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Friedman, Morton H.

Affiliations: Department of Biomedical Engineering, 136 Hudson Hall, Box 90281, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA Tel.: +1 919 660 5122; Fax: +1 919 684 4488; E‐mail: [email protected]

Abstract: Geometric parameters and features vary within the vasculature. Furthermore, at any given anatomic site, there are substantial variations in geometry among individuals. These variations can contribute to a corresponding variability in the hemodynamic environment and, to the extent that hemodynamics affects the atherosclerotic process, the progress of vascular disease. Measurements of the geometry and wall morphometry of post‐mortem human coronary arteries demonstrate a relationship between these variables that supports the notion that geometric variations can contribute to a corresponding variability in the local rate of progression of arterial disease. The dynamic geometry of the coronary arteries also varies from site to site and among individuals, and this variability too may play a role in the epidemiology of coronary artery disease.

Journal: Biorheology, vol. 39, no. 3-4, pp. 513-517, 2002