A Numerical Study of Arterial Media Dissection Processes

In medical terms and referring to aortic arterial damage, dissection is the separation of intra-medial tissue induced by a radial tear cutting the intima (inner layer) and a portion of the underling media (middle layer). Pressurized blood pervading the tear enhances the intramural process of dissection, and may induce a subsequent formation of clots. The purpose of this study is to setup and calibrate a numerical model of arterial dissection, based on cohesive theories of fracture. The dissection model is used to characterize the critical mechanical conditions for the interlamellar propagation of a tear in the media and the influence of the reinforcing collagen fibers on the separation process.