Numerical model study of flow dynamics through an end-to-side anastomosis: choice of anastomosis angle and prosthesis diameter.

The purpose of this numerical model study was to determine the angle of anastomosis and prosthesis-to-artery diameter ratio that theoretically limits development of myointimal hyperplasia (MIH). Blood flow patterns were investigated in a model simulating a distal end-to-side anastomosis on a 2-mm-diameter artery. Tests were carried out under steady and pulsatile flow conditions with and without taking into account the non-Newtonian behavior of blood and compliance.