Hemodynamics in the Aorta and Pulmonary Arteries of Congenital Heart Disease Patients: A Mini Review

Abstract

Congenital heart disease, which affects more than one million newborns globally each year, contributes to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and ultimately reduced life expectancy. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) enables detailed, non-invasive characterization of complex physiological pressure and flow fields, thus improving our understanding of congenital heart disease hemodynamics. In recent years, this has driven clinical decision-making, surgical planning, and the evaluation of innovative surgical techniques. In this mini review, CFD methods applied to the study of congenital abnormalities, with a focus on the aorta and pulmonary bifurcation, are discussed. The clinical relevance and future directions of CFD modelling are also reviewed.