148
Dynamics
of
the Vascular System
k
k
rmk
=rd, +rd2
(5.1
.l)
It has been shown that
2
5
k 53
are physiologically relevant. Fig.
5.1.6
illustrates one such result after structural optimization is applied,
assuming
k=3.
Fig.
5.1.6:
Constrained constructive optimization obtained vascular tree network with
4,000
terminal segments generated in
a
2-D
perfusion area. Minimum intravascular
volume is optimized at bifurcation exponent
of
k
=
3.
No
minimum symmetry is
assumed. From Schreiner et al.
(2000).
5.2 Fluid Mechanics of Vascular Branching
5.2.1
Branching Geometry and Fluid Dynamic Considerations
There
are numerous branching junctions in the vascular
system.
Bifurcations are the most common. Some of these are, for instances,
aorta to left and right iliac arteries or aorto-iliac bifurcation, common
carotid to internal
and external carotid arteries or carotid
artery
