Computer modeling of semicircular canals in the vestibular system

Abstract

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most commonly diagnosed vertigo syndrome that affects 15% of older persons. BPPV is characterized by sudden attacks of dizziness and nausea triggered by changes in head orientation, and primarily afflicts the posterior canal. We are modeling human semicircular canals (SSC) which considers the morphology of the organs and the composition of the biological tissues and their viscoelastic and mechanical properties. The Navier-Stokes equations of balance of linear momentum and the continuity equation with application of Penalty method are used. For fluid-structure interaction problem we use loose coupling methodology with ALE (Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian) formulation. The tissue of SSC has nonlinear constitutive laws, leading to materially-nonlinear finite element formulation. The incremental-iterative equation is using for nonlinear wall tissue problem. Our results simulate many dynamics position of head and dynamic fluid parameters, shear stress, effective wall stress of membrane. This could help in better diagnostic and therapy process for BPPV disease.