Doppler color-flow images from a stenosed arterial model: interpretation of flow patterns.
The capability of the recently introduced Doppler color-flow mapping devices to accurately detect flow patterns in the region of an arterial stenosis was evaluated by use of an in vitro flow model. Pulsatile flow simulating that in a low-resistance vessel was induced through a straight acrylic tube, which alternatively contained axisymmetric stenoses of 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% diameter reduction. Doppler color-flow mapper images were taken in realtime along the tube midplane from 0 to 8 diameters downstream of each stenosis. Comparison of the Doppler color-flow mapping results with similarly recorded flow visualization (hydrogen bubble) images showed a close correspondence of key features of the flow, including detection of a high-velocity, centerline jet and near-wall separated flow zones. Distinctive flow patterns exist with each stenotic case, and these should be of considerable value in diagnosing clinical disease conditions.
Rittgers
S E
SE
Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Akron, OH 44325.
Shu
M C
MC
D001157:Arterial Occlusive Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D001158:Arteries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D001783:Blood Flow Velocity; D006801:Humans; D008961:Models, Structural; D014463:Ultrasonography