A distributed predictive arterial model for human vascular diagnostic applications

A novel frequency domain distributed segmental arterial model was designed to predict pulsatile blood pressure waveforms in large arteries. The model was based on pulse wave reflection theories and nodal network analysis. This model was evaluated in terms of branch reflection coefficients, terminal vascular bed behavior, and arterial wall viscoelasticity. It was found that the model-based predicted pressure waveforms were very sensitive to the branch reflections and that compared favorably with measured blood pressure waveforms. The model has the potential for diagnosis of local vascular abnormalities such as arterial stenosis and altered vasoactive conditions.