Mathematical modelling and electrical analog equivalent of the human cardiovascular system.

Abdolrazaghi M, Navidbakhsh M, Hassani K.

Mechanical Engineering Department, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran. [log in to unmask]

Abstract

The objective of this study is to develop a model of the cardiovascular system capable of simulating the normal operation of the systemic and pulmonary circulation, starts from aorta, and follows by upper and lower extremities vessels, finally ends with pulmonary veins. The model consists of a closed loop lumped elements with 43 compartments representing the cardiovascular system. The model parameters have been extracted from the literature. Using MATLAB software, the mathematical model has been simulated for the cardiovascular system. Each compartment includes a Resistor-Inductor-Capacitor (RLC) segment. The normal cardiovascular operation is characterised by the pressure-volume curves in different parts of the system. Model verification is performed by comparing the simulation results with the clinical observation reported in the literature. The described model is a useful tool in studying the physiology of cardiovascular system, and the related diseases. Also, it could be a great tool to investigate the effects of the pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

Mr Mike Poullis

BSc(Hons), MBBS, MD, MIEEE, FRCS(CTh)

Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon