Fluid-structure Interaction in Biofluid Mechanics: Insights and Applications

Iqa Akgül^*
*Correspondence: Iqa Akgül, Department of Computer Science and Mathematics, Lebanese American University, Beirut 1102-2801, Lebanon, Email:

Introduction

The intricate dance between fluids and structures is a fundamental aspect of biofluid mechanics, a field that explores the behavior of fluids within living organisms. Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) is at the heart of this discipline and it plays a pivotal role in understanding various physiological processes, diseases and therapeutic interventions. In this article, we delve into the world of FSI in biofluid mechanics, shedding light on its insights and applications. Fluid-Structure Interaction refers to the mutual influence between a fluid and a solid structure when they interact with each other. In the context of biofluid mechanics, this interaction occurs within living organisms, where fluids such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid and lymph interact with biological structures like blood vessels, heart valves and tissues. The dynamics of this interaction are governed by the laws of fluid mechanics and structural mechanics [1].

Description

To describe FSI in biofluid mechanics, one must consider the Navier-Stokes equations for fluid motion and the equations of structural mechanics. These equations form the basis for mathematical modeling and simulation of FSI phenomena. Solving these coupled equations provides insights into the behavior of both the fluid and the structure and how they affect each other. One of the most significant applications of FSI in biofluid mechanics is the study of hemodynamics, the study of blood flow within the circulatory system. Understanding how blood interacts with blood vessels and the heart is crucial for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases. FSI simulations help identify regions of disturbed flow, such as in the vicinity of arterial bifurcations or within stenotic vessels, which are associated with the development of atherosclerosis [2].

Heart valves are essential for maintaining unidirectional blood flow within the heart. FSI analysis enables researchers and clinicians to investigate valve function, identify conditions such as valve stenosis or regurgitation and design improved prosthetic valves. By simulating the interaction between blood flow and valve leaflets, FSI studies aid in optimizing valve designs and surgical interventions. In the respiratory system, FSI plays a crucial role in understanding lung function and diseases. It helps researchers model the interaction between airflow and the elastic lung tissue, which is vital for studying conditions like asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and the effects of mechanical ventilation. Insights gained from FSI simulations contribute to the development of better treatment strategies [3].

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) surrounds the brain and spinal cord, providing protection and metabolic support. FSI analyses of CSF flow are essential for understanding conditions like hydrocephalus and syringomyelia. By modeling the interaction between CSF and brain tissue, FSI studies aid in diagnosing and managing these neurological disorders. FSI has applications beyond understanding physiological processes. In drug delivery, FSI simulations help predict the distribution of therapeutic agents within the body. This information is invaluable for optimizing drug formulations, delivery devices and treatment strategies. FSI analyses can also aid in targeted drug delivery to specific tissues or organs.

Finite Element Analysis is a widely used computational method for solving FSI problems. It discretizes the fluid and structure domains into finite elements and employs numerical techniques to solve the governing equations iteratively. FEA is highly versatile and can handle complex geometries, making it suitable for modeling biological systems. Computational Fluid Dynamics focuses on the fluid aspect of FSI. CFD simulates fluid flow using numerical methods, often in conjunction with FEA for FSI problems. It is applied to study blood flow patterns, respiratory airflow and CSF dynamics within the human body [4,5].

Conclusion

Fluid-Structure Interaction in biofluid mechanics offers profound insights into the behavior of fluids within living organisms and their interaction with biological structures. From understanding hemodynamics to improving medical device design and surgical planning, FSI plays a vital role in healthcare and biomedical research. Despite challenges, ongoing advancements in computational methods and experimental techniques continue to expand our understanding of FSI, paving the way for enhanced diagnosis, treatment and patient care in the field of biofluid mechanics. As we look to the future, FSI will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of biomedical engineering and clinical practice, driving innovation and improving human health. Biofluid mechanics involves multiple scales, from microscopic blood cells to macroscopic organs. Developing multiscale FSI models that bridge these scales remains a significant research frontier. These models would enable a more comprehensive understanding of physiological processes and diseases. Fluid-Structure Interaction in biofluid mechanics is a multidisciplinary field with profound implications for medicine and biology. By understanding the complex interplay between fluids and biological structures, researchers and engineers can develop innovative solutions for healthcare, from better medical devices to improved treatments for various conditions. As technology and computational capabilities continue to advance, FSI in biofluid mechanics will undoubtedly play an even more significant role in shaping the future of healthcare and medical science.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

There are no conflicts of interest by author.

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