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24 - Mechanical image analysis using finite element method

from Plaque modelling

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 December 2009

By
Dalin Tang ,
Chun Yang  and
Chun Yuan
Edited by
Jonathan Gillard ,
Martin Graves ,
Thomas Hatsukami  and
Chun Yuan
Dalin Tang
Affiliation:
Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA
Chun Yang
Affiliation:
Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA; Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
Chun Yuan
Affiliation:
University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
Jonathan Gillard
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge
Martin Graves
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge
Thomas Hatsukami
Affiliation:
University of Washington
Chun Yuan
Affiliation:
University of Washington
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Summary

Introduction and general modeling considerations

Development in medical image technology has led to impressive progress in image-based computational modeling which adds a new dimension (mechanical analysis) to atherosclerostic plaque image analysis. While current patient screening and diagnosis are mainly based on 2D images and experiences from radiologists and physicians, plaque progression and rupture are believed to be related to plaque morphology, mechanical forces, vessel remodeling, blood conditions (cholesterol, sugar, etc.), chemical environment, and lumen surface conditions (inflammation) (Fuster et al., 1990; Fuster, 1998; Suri and Laxminarayan, 2003). The mechanisms governing plaque progression and causing plaque rupture are not fully understood. The motivations of using computational models to perform mechanical image analysis are based on the following:

  1. (i) mechanical forces play an essential role in plaque progression and rupture. Plaque itself would not rupture if no forces were acting on it. Both mechanical forces and plaque structure are key factors in the progression and rupture process and should be examined together;

  2. (ii) fluid-structure interaction (FSI) plays an essential role in plaque mechanical analysis. Plaque structure, flow environment and material properties are the three elements for FSI models. By analyzing plaques using FSI models, the plaque is placed in a more realistic environment, and more accurate assessment and predictions are possible;

  3. (iii) 3D multicomponent computational models based on 3D geometry reconstructed from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data will advance the current screening and diagnosis techniques;

  4. (iv) a computational plaque vulnerability index, if one can be identified and validated, will be very useful for plaque assessment and monitoring.

The controlling factors affecting mechanical forces in the plaque are classified into three groups (see Table 24.1) so that we can better understand different computational models with their associated assumptions and limitations.

Keywords

atherosclerotic plaquescomputational fluid dynamicscomputational modeling techniquesfinite element methodrupture risk assessmentMRImechanical image analysis
Type
Chapter
Information
Carotid Disease
The Role of Imaging in Diagnosis and Management
 , pp. 324 - 340
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2006

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