How do the mechanics of blood flow impact vascular health and disease? This review delves into the intricate interplay of fluid mechanics within the cardiovascular system and its connection to conditions like atherosclerosis and thrombosis. Focusing on the pulsatile nature of arterial blood flow, the study highlights how non-uniform wall stresses and secondary flows at branches influence vascular adaptation and potential biological responses. By exploring the relationship between fluid dynamics and thrombosis, the review emphasizes the accelerated platelet accumulation and occlusion in stenotic arteries. Innovative convection models are discussed, offering insights into predicting clinical occlusion from platelet thrombosis. Looking forward, the review advocates for future research to investigate flow-induced wall motion and the convection of particles and cells in blood, aiming to bridge the gap between fluid mechanics and clinical outcomes in vascular diseases. This work is vital for advancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in cardiovascular medicine, potentially leading to more effective treatments for heart attack and stroke.
Published in the _Annual Review of Biomedical Engineering_, this paper aligns with the journal's focus on interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and improving human health. By examining the fluid mechanics of vascular systems, the article contributes to the journal's coverage of medical technology and genetics. The emphasis on thrombosis and atherosclerosis connects to research on diagnostics and the development of treatments of cardiovascular disease.