Modeling perfusion in the cerebral vasculature

Abstract

The constant perfusion of a human organ with nutrients and oxygen demands a robust regulatory mechanisms in the face of normal day-to-day pressure variations in the vasculature. The brain, in a similar manner to the heart requires this mechanism to be extremely quick acting, relative to other ways of altering perfusion such as varying systemic blood pressure, since oxygen depravation in the tissues of the brain can be tolerated for only of the order of tens of seconds before significant damage can be done. In recent years computational models, and it must be noted computer architecture have evolved to an extent where mathematicians and engineers can play a large part in discovering how the brain functions physiologically as well as investigating pathological conditions. This review will look at a number of increasingly complex computational models of blood flow to the brain and how variations in arterial geometry can influence the perfusion in the cerebral vasculature. Although these models have provided an insight into complex mechanisms the research area is densely populated with important questions that perhaps only computer models can answer. The review will indicate possible areas of investigation.