Numerical Modeling of the Flow Dynamics of Red Blood Cells and Plasma in the Aorta

Abstract

The study of red blood cells (RBCs) and plasma flow rates in the aorta aims to understand the hemodynamic behavior of blood as it circulates through one of the body's largest arteries. RBCs and plasma exhibit different rheological characteristics, with RBCs being more viscous due to their cellular structure, while plasma, primarily made up of water and proteins, is less viscous. This research typically integrates computational modeling and experimental techniques to analyze how these two components interact under varying flow conditions, including shear rates, vessel dimensions, and pressure gradients. The objective is to assess how these interactions influence overall blood flow, which is crucial for understanding circulatory dynamics and addressing cardiovascular conditions like atherosclerosis or aneurysms. Insights from such research are vital for advancing medical treatments, improving diagnostic methods, and optimizing the design of medical devices such as stents and artificial heart valves.