A multiscale framework for acute ischemic stroke therapy based on two-phase fluid-structure interaction models on vascular networks

• Applicants: Dr. Niklas Kolbe; Dr. Michael Neidlin; Privatdozent Dr. Omid Nikoubashman
• Subject Area: Medical Physics, Biomedical Technology ; Mathematics
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 548864771

In the proposed research project, we will establish a multiscale computational framework to perform patient-specific acute ischemic stroke interventions. Endovascular thrombectomy is the standard therapy for acute ischemic stroke. In addition, thrombolysis is a concomitant treatment option. Hemodynamics in the cerebral arteries, clot biomechanics, thrombolytic agent transport and patient-device interaction need to be considered for safe and effective stroke therapy. Existing computational models do not factor in all those aspects. Further on, they are complex and suffer from long run-times which impedes clinical translation. We will tackle these gaps by an interdisciplinary project between neuroradiologists, mathematicians and engineers that will explore the capabilities of 1D vascular network models and their coupling to 3D continuum models of clot biomechanics. Initially, we will characterize thrombus material properties and measure thrombolysis in-vitro through static and dynamic testing. This data will be used to develop a continuum model of thrombi. In parallel, we will implement a novel fluid-structure interaction two-phase approach in an accurate 1D network model of blood flow in compliant cerebral arteries. The model will incorporate vessel occlusions, endovascular aspiration and thrombolysis. Well-balanced and robust numerical schemes will enable efficient simulations. At last, the 3D and 1D models will be coupled and its usability will be assessed in a proof-of-concept study through real-world clinical cases. The developed framework will be able to address both, the complex multiphysics behavior of ischemic stroke therapy and the requirement for fast computational models. It will allow the rapid assessment of interventions on a patient-specific basis and pave the way towards future clinical application.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 2311: Robust coupling of continuum-biomechanical in silico models to establish active biological system models for later use in clinical applications - Co-design of modeling, numerics and usability
• Co-Investigators: Professor Dr. Siegfried Müller; Dr. Ferdinand Thein