Flow Analysis in Damaged Venous Valves Installed with an Artificial Venous Valve

Abstract

There exist various treatment methods for varicose veins, such as high ligation, stripping, sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, and laser ablation. However, these are palliative treatment methods. Artificial venous valves are expected to reproduce the normal functions of venous valves. We performed a basic study on the development of artificial venous valves. An artificial venous valve that is based on fluid mechanics and capable of reproducing the functions of human venous valves was designed and evaluated through flow analysis simulations. Two types of damaged human venous valves and an artificial venous valve that can be installed with endovascular approach were designed. A total of 16 cases of flow analysis were performed according to the presence of the artificial venous valve, installation location, and normal or reflux blood flow. An analysis of the flow rate, wall shear stress, and velocity vector demonstrated that the stagnant flow around the venous valve can be resolved if the artificial venous valve is installed behind the damaged venous valve.