Arterial hemodynamics: a database of virtual subjects

We present a novel methodology to assess theoretically physiological computed indices and algorithms based on pulse wave analysis in the large arteries of the cardiovascular system. 

We have created a database of virtual healthy adult subjects using a validated one-dimensional numerical model of the arterial hemodynamics, which cardiac and arterial parameters are varied within physiological healthy ranges. The generated set of simulations encloses more than 3300 cases which could be encountered in a clinical study. For each simulation, hemodynamic signals (e.g. pressure, flow and distension waveforms) are available at all arterial locations, and allow the computation of indices of interest.

The database has been efficiently used to assess the accuracy of the foot-to-foot pulse wave velocities for estimation of aortic stiffness [1] and other physiological indices. It is an efficient way to validate an algorithm based on pressure and flow signals without suffering from experimental error. Finally, the database can be used to understand the theoretical mechanisms of wave propagation: since all arterial parameters are known, one can easily post-process the pressure and flow waveforms.  

[1] M. Willemet, P. Chowienczyk and J. Alastruey. A database of virtual healthy subjects to assess the accuracy of foot-to-foot pulse wave velocities for estimation of aortic stiffness. American Journal of Physiology - Heart and Circulatory Physiology, 309(4):H663-H675, 2015

Data is saved in Matlab formatted files, with results sorted by arterial location, and physiology of the results (each file is about 300 MB). In addition, the Fictive_database.mat file stores a description of the arterial network geometry, and values of computed physiological indices (e.g. Cardiac Output, PWV, Pulse Pressure). The structure of the database is explained in details in the manual document.