An LBM based model for initial stenosis development in the carotid artery

A numerical scheme is proposed to simulate the early stages of stenosis development based on the properties of blood flow in the carotid artery, computed using the lattice Boltzmann method. The model is developed on the premise, supported by evidence from the literature, that the stenosis develops in regions of low velocity and low wall shear stress. The model is based on two spatial parameters which relate to the extent to which the stenosis can grow in each development phase. Simulations of stenosis development are presented for a range of the spacial parameters to determine suitable ranges for their application. Flow fields are also presented which indicate that the stenosis is developing in a realistic manner, providing evidence that stenosis development is indeed influenced by the low shear stress, rather than occurring in such areas coincidentally.