Mechanical image analysis using finite element method

doi:10.1017/CBO9780511544941.025

24 - Mechanical image analysis using finite element method

from Plaque modelling

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 03 December 2009

Chun Yang and

Edited by

Thomas Hatsukami and

Dalin Tang: Affiliation:
Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA
Chun Yang: Affiliation:
Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA; Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
Chun Yuan: Affiliation:
University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
Jonathan Gillard: Affiliation:
University of Cambridge
Martin Graves: Affiliation:
University of Cambridge
Thomas Hatsukami: Affiliation:
University of Washington
Chun Yuan: Affiliation:
University of Washington

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Summary

Introduction and general modeling considerations

Development in medical image technology has led to impressive progress in image-based computational modeling which adds a new dimension (mechanical analysis) to atherosclerostic plaque image analysis. While current patient screening and diagnosis are mainly based on 2D images and experiences from radiologists and physicians, plaque progression and rupture are believed to be related to plaque morphology, mechanical forces, vessel remodeling, blood conditions (cholesterol, sugar, etc.), chemical environment, and lumen surface conditions (inflammation) (Fuster et al., 1990; Fuster, 1998; Suri and Laxminarayan, 2003). The mechanisms governing plaque progression and causing plaque rupture are not fully understood. The motivations of using computational models to perform mechanical image analysis are based on the following:

(i) mechanical forces play an essential role in plaque progression and rupture. Plaque itself would not rupture if no forces were acting on it. Both mechanical forces and plaque structure are key factors in the progression and rupture process and should be examined together;
(ii) fluid-structure interaction (FSI) plays an essential role in plaque mechanical analysis. Plaque structure, flow environment and material properties are the three elements for FSI models. By analyzing plaques using FSI models, the plaque is placed in a more realistic environment, and more accurate assessment and predictions are possible;
(iii) 3D multicomponent computational models based on 3D geometry reconstructed from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data will advance the current screening and diagnosis techniques;
(iv) a computational plaque vulnerability index, if one can be identified and validated, will be very useful for plaque assessment and monitoring.

The controlling factors affecting mechanical forces in the plaque are classified into three groups (see Table 24.1) so that we can better understand different computational models with their associated assumptions and limitations.

Keywords

atherosclerotic plaques computational fluid dynamics computational modeling techniques finite element method rupture risk assessment MRI mechanical image analysis

Information

Type: Chapter
Information: Carotid Disease
The Role of Imaging in Diagnosis and Management
, pp. 324 - 340
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511544941.025 [Opens in a new window]
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2006

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