Computational Fluid Dynamics of a Fatal Ruptured Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysm

Abstract

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has been studied as a tool for the stratification of aneurysm rupture risk. We performed CFD analysis in a patient operated on for a ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm. The point of rupture was identified during surgery. The aneurysm and blood vessels were segmented from computed tomography angiography to prepare a model for simulations. We found that the streamlines showed a concentrated inflow jet directed straight at the rupture point, and high wall shear stress was found at the point of rupture in the aneurysm sac. Thus specific local hemodynamics may be indicative of the aneurysm rupture site.

Keywords

aneurysm - computational fluid dynamics - rupture risk - surgery - wall shear stress

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