A 1D pulse wave propagation model of the hemodynamics of calf muscle pump function

J. M. T. Keijsers*, C. A. D. Leguy, W. Huberts, A. J. Narracott, J. Rittweger, F. N. van de Vosse

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

The calf muscle pump is a mechanism which increases venous return and thereby compensates for the fluid shift towards the lower body during standing. During a muscle contraction, the embedded deep veins collapse and venous return increases. In the subsequent relaxation phase, muscle perfusion increases due to increased perfusion pressure, as the proximal venous valves temporarily reduce the distal venous pressure (shielding). The superficial and deep veins are connected via perforators, which contain valves allowing flow in the superficial-to-deep direction. The aim of this study is to investigate and quantify the physiological mechanisms of the calf muscle pump, including the effect of venous valves, hydrostatic pressure, and the superficial venous system. Using a one-dimensional pulse wave propagation model, a muscle contraction is simulated by increasing the extravascular pressure in the deep venous segments. The hemodynamics are studied in three different configurations: a single artery-vein configuration with and without valves and a more detailed configuration including a superficial vein. Proximal venous valves increase effective venous return by 53% by preventing reflux. Furthermore, the proximal valves shielding function increases perfusion following contraction. Finally, the superficial system aids in maintaining the perfusion during the contraction phase and reduces the refilling time by 37%.
Original languageEnglish
Article numbere02714
JournalInternational Journal for Numerical Methods in Biomedical Engineering
Volume31
Issue number7
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jul 2015

Keywords

  • muscle pump
  • collapsible vein
  • gravity
  • 1D pulse wave propagation
  • venous valves
  • orthostatic intolerance

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