2F34 Finite element modeling of a ruptured plaque in human carotid artery

Abstract

Rupture of atheromatous plaque in carotid arteries causes cerebrovascular events which can lead to death. The mechanical behavior of the ruptured plaque is not yet fully understood. Finite element (FE) analysis gives insight to the mechanical behavior of the ruptured plaque. In this study we focused on the post-rupture deformation of a plaque in an internal carotid artery (ICA). We created tubular solid and fluid FE models of the ruptured ICA. We compared the simulation results with ultrasonographic images taken before endarterectomy. Pressure in the lipid core (LC) cavity was equal to the intraluminal pressure at the site of rupture, and its volume was nearly doubled. However, the volume of LC was overestimated compared to what observed in vivo. These are in accordance with literature studies which reported blood entering a ruptured plaque with an increase in plaque volume. Our results provide a better understanding of the mechanism and behaviour of the plaque post-rupture, which may improve its medical evaluations.