Fluid Dynamic and Morphological Investigation of Middle Cerebral Artery Bifurcation Aneurysm for Rupture Risk Evaluation

Abstract

Accurate evaluation of the cerebral aneurysm rupture risk is currently a challenge. Indeed, an accurate prediction is crucial for optimising clinical surveillance and treatment decisions. This study aims to evaluate rupture risk by analysing hemodynamic and morphological factors that would influence aneurysm growth and rupture. A computational fluid dynamics approach was employed to simulate blood flow dynamics with aneurysm geometry obtained through angiography. The blood was modelled as a non-Newtonian, incompressible, turbulent fluid, using velocity profiles derived from transcranial Doppler ultrasound as the inflow condition. The outcomes of this investigation yield significant insights into the interior of the aneurysm, specifically regarding pressure distributions and wall shear stress. These were evaluated in conjunction with the characteristics of the aneurysm shape. This approach could assist in explaining the nature of brain aneurysm behaviour and may potentially address clinical decision-making in the treatment of this complex condition.