Computational Methods for Patient-Specific Modelling

Patient-specific haemodynamic modelling using computational fluid dynamics approaches is a multi-stage process. Firstly, a model of the geometry of interest is created and discretised. The governing equations for the fluid must then be solved for each discretised element, and the interfaces of the domain should be treated appropriately. This chapter will describe the basic equations solved using CFD and their numerical treatment. Subsequently, the stages required in imaging the patient and converting the images into a 3D geometry will be given, followed by a brief description of discretisation (meshing). The mathematics behind lumped-parameter modelling to develop dynamic BCs will be described and a comparison with alternative BCs will be made. Finally, a brief introduction to the relevant aspects of solid modelling will be provided.