Numerical simulation is performed to demonstrate that hemodynamic factors are significant determinants for the development of a vascular pathology. Experimental measurements by particle image velocimetry are carried out to validate the credibility of the computational approach. We present a study for determining complex flow structures using the case of an anatomically realistic carotid bifurcation model that is reconstructed from medical imaging. A transparent silicone replica of the artery is developed for in-vitro flow measurement. The dynamic behaviours of blood through the vascular structure based on the numerical and experimental approaches show good agreement.