Comparison of image-driven, patient-specific, direct numerical simulations to 4D flow MRI in the right ventricle

Abstract

Recent advancements in imaging technologies and computa-tional power have significantly enhanced our understanding of intracar-diac flow dynamics. Four-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (4D-MRI) has become a standard tool for capturing time-resolved, three-dimensional blood flow; however, its limited temporal and spatial reso-lution poses challenges for accurately capturing small-scale flow features and quantifying important flow parameters especially in the right ven-tricle (RV). To overcome these limitations, high-fidelity multi-physics models have been developed. Yet, these models remain computation-ally expensive and lack the ability to model patient-specific conditions. Image-driven direct numerical simulations (DNS) with prescribed kine-matics offer a feasible, cost efficient solution but accurate modeling of intricate heart structures such as the tricuspid valve (TV) is hindered by the resolution constraints of conventional imaging techniques. This work introduces a novel approach that combines TV kinematics with the RV, offering a computationally efficient yet physiologically accurate solution. The results were validated against 4D-MRI data.

Postprint (published version)