A 1D computer model of the arterial circulation in horses: An important resource for studying global interactions between heart and vessels under normal and pathological conditions

PLoS One. 2019 Aug 21;14(8):e0221425. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221425. eCollection 2019.

Abstract

Arterial rupture in horses has been observed during exercise, after phenylephrine administration or during parturition (uterine artery). In human pathophysiological research, the use of computer models for studying arterial hemodynamics and understanding normal and abnormal characteristics of arterial pressure and flow waveforms is very common. The objective of this research was to develop a computer model of the equine arterial circulation, in order to study local intra-arterial pressures and flow dynamics in horses. Morphologically, large differences exist between human and equine aortic arch and arterial branching patterns. Development of the present model was based on post-mortem obtained anatomical data of the arterial tree (arterial lengths, diameters and branching angles); in vivo collected ultrasonographic flow profiles from the common carotid artery, external iliac artery, median artery and aorta; and invasively collected pressure curves from carotid artery and aorta. These data were used as input for a previously validated (in humans) 1D arterial network model. Data on terminal resistance and arterial compliance parameters were tuned to equine physiology. Given the large arterial diameters, Womersley theory was used to compute friction coefficients, and the input into the arterial system was provided via a scaled time-varying elastance model of the left heart. Outcomes showed plausible predictions of pressure and flow waveforms throughout the considered arterial tree. Simulated flow waveform morphology was in line with measured flow profiles. Consideration of gravity further improved model based predicted waveforms. Derived flow waveform patterns could be explained using wave power analysis. The model offers possibilities as a research tool to predict changes in flow profiles and local pressures as a result of strenuous exercise or altered arterial wall properties related to age, breed or gender.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Aorta, Thoracic* / pathology
  • Aorta, Thoracic* / physiopathology
  • Carotid Artery, Common* / pathology
  • Carotid Artery, Common* / physiopathology
  • Computer Simulation*
  • Hemodynamics*
  • Horses
  • Iliac Artery* / pathology
  • Iliac Artery* / physiopathology
  • Models, Cardiovascular*

Grants and funding

This work was supported by the Special Research Fund of Ghent University (Daimé Campos) and the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO-Vlaanderen) (Lisse Vera).