Lattice Boltzmann method simulating hemodynamics in the three-dimensional stenosed and recanalized human carotid bifurcations

By using the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) pulsatile blood flows were simulated in three-dimensional moderate stenosed and recanalized carotid bifurcations to understand local hemodynamics and its relevance in arterial atherosclerosis formation and progression. The helical flow patterns, secondary flow and wall dynamical pressure spatiotemporal distributions were investigated, which leads to the disturbed shear forces in the carotid artery bifurcations. The wall shear stress distributions indicated by time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS), oscillatory shear index (OSI), and the relative residence time (RRT) in a cardiac cycle revealed the regions where atherosclerotic plaques are prone to form, extend or rupture. This study also illustrates the point that locally disturbed flow may be considered as an indicator for early atherosclerosis diagnosis. Additionally the present work demonstrates the robust and highly efficient advantages of the LBM for the hemodynamics study of the human blood vessel system.