Intentionally induced swirling flow may improve the hemodynamic performance of coronary bifurcation stenting

Objectives and Background: Bifurcation stenting represents a challenge for the high rate of restenosis that has close correlations with local hemodynamics. This study sought to test the hypothesis that by intentionally inducing swirling flow the hemodynamic performance of bifurcation stenting can be improved. Methods: The hemodynamics of bifurcation stenting with and without swirling flows were numerically simulated and compared. Results: The results revealed that swirling flow significantly suppressed flow disturbance of blood at the bifurcation and WSS at two critical regions, the outer wall of the bifurcation ostium and the floor wall opposite the branching, was enhanced. Conclusions: This study therefore suggests that intentionally inducing swirling flow might be a good strategy in bifurcation stenting. (c) 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.