Numerical simulation of the intra-aneurysmal flow dynamics.

SUMMARY: Intra-aneurysmal flow dynamics is analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively with numerical simulation technique, and presented for the future clinical application in embolizing cerebral aneurysms. From the volumetric data obtained by three-dimensional computed tomographic angiography, patient-specific vessel models were created for 16 middle cerebral artery aneurysms. Intraaneurysmal flow dynamics was visualized and analyzed qualitatively, and the geometrical parameters of vessels and aneurysms that affect the intra- aneurysmal flow dynamics were determined quantitatively by correlation analysis. The flow velocity was delayed in the aneurysm cavity, especially at its tip where the rupture usually occurs. The intra-aneurysmal flow dynamics was considerably influenced by the geometrical parameters that are related to the width of the neck and the branching angle of larger branch artery. The intra-aneurysmal flow dynamics is complex, and the numerical flow simulations with patient-specific vascular models seems effective in understanding the flow dynamics and planning the endovascular treatment of cerebral aneurysms.