The effect of beta-blockers on hemodynamic parameters in patient-specific blood flow simulations of type-B aortic dissection: a virtual study

Abstract Aortic dissection (AD) is one of the fatal and complex conditions. Since there a lack specific treatment guideline for type-B AD, better understanding patient-specific hemodynamics therapy outcomes can potentially control progression disease aid in clinical decision-making process. In this work, geometry AD reconstructed from computed tomography images, numerical simulation using personalised computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with three-element Windkessel model boundary condition at each outlet implemented. According to physiological response beta-blockers reduction left ventricular contractions, three case studies different heart rates are created. Several hemodynamic features, including time-averaged wall shear stress (TAWSS), highly oscillatory, low magnitude (HOLMES), flow pattern investigated compared between case. Results show that decreasing TAWSS, which caused by velocity gradient, prevents vessel entry tear rupture. Additionally, increase HOLMES value distal false lumen, calcification plaque formation moderate regular-heart rate cases successfully controlled. This work demonstrates how CFD methods non-invasive metrics be developed predict changes before medication or other invasive operations. These consequences powerful framework clinicians surgical communities improve their diagnostic pre-procedural planning.