The newest generation of HRCT scanners is capable of providing detailed images of the coronary arteries. These arteries provide the heart muscle with oxygen rich blood. A constriction or occlusion of these vessels can lead to a cardiac arrest. It is therefore important to follow the progression of the condition of the coronary arteries to prevent adverse events by placing stents or performing coronary bypass surgery. The combination of imaging and computer simulations provides a highly detailed tool to describe the blood flow characteristics through these arteries. Zones of high pressure and wall shear stress can be identified and monitored. By using the patient specific images, the appropriate stents can be selected to ensure optimal results when this type of therapy is selected.
Regions of high pressure in a HRCT-based personalised model of the coronary arteries