Impact of hematocrit on pulsatile blood flow in stenosed arteries: a computational study in healthy, diabetic, and anemic models

In this study, researchers aim to enhance the realism of circulatory system simulations, focusing on factors affecting flow variations, particularly in stenotic arteries of individuals with altered hematocrit levels. Through extensive data collection and varied conditions, the goal is to attain more precise and valid results. The study conducts approximate simulations to comprehensively describe the dynamic motion of pulsatile flow. Different values of inlet velocity (UDF) are introduced, considering potential arterial distortion or occlusion due to plaque deposition, along with variations in hematocrit (Hct) levels commonly observed in patients. Three distinct types of pulsatile blood flow, corresponding to diabetes (Hct 65%), healthy (Hct 45%), and anemia (Hct 25%), are studied and compared. The research illuminates that stenosis in arteries with varying hematocrit levels significantly impacts hydrodynamic features, potentially predisposing individuals to cardiovascular diseases. Through meticulous analysis, several conclusions about hemodynamic characteristics are drawn. It is observed that both velocity and wall shear stress exhibit variation along the affected artery, influenced by stenosis and changes in hematocrit levels. Notably, the highest influence on velocity and wall shear stress is observed with Hct 65%, compared to Hct 45% and Hct 25% at the moment of stenosis. These findings hold substantial practical implications for the field of cardiovascular health, providing valuable insights into blood flow behavior in stenotic arteries with diverse hematocrit levels. Ultimately, this research contributes to more effective clinical interventions.