Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 28
Bridging Scales in Respiratory Mechanics
Lena Yoshihara, Mahmoud Ismail, and Wolfgang A. Wall
Abstract In this paper, we review different types of overall lung models developed
recently in our group. The first approach is based on three-dimensional (3D) con-
tinuum models of both the airways and the tissue. As only parts of the lung can
be resolved in detail in the model, advanced multi-scale techniques are utilized to
adequately consider the unresolved parts. Alternatively, we have proposed a com-
prehensive reduced-dimensional lung model allowing to effectively study pressure
and flow characteristics in the entire conducting region of the lung, albeit at the cost
of detailed information on local tissue stresses and strains. To combine the advan-
tages of detailed and simplified lung models, we have developed a novel approach
for the coupling of 3D and 0D airway models.
28.1 Introduction
Compared to other areas in biomechanics like the circulatory or the musculoskeletal
system, surprisingly many open questions related to structural-functional correla-
tions in the lung remain. Much of the uncertainty stems from the difficulties in
documenting lung mechanics on the 'micro-level', given the small size of corre-
sponding interior structures and the large movement of the lung during breathing.
Therefore, a sound standing 'virtual lung model' can be a valuable tool for various
applications ranging from the better understanding of lung diseases to progress on
individual therapeutic approaches.
Our current main motivation for modeling the respiratory system is related to
the treatment of patients suffering from the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
(ARDS). This severe diffuse lung disease is characterized by a number of symptoms
such as reduced overall lung compliance, edema, severe hypoxemia, and general in-
flammation of the lung tissue. Although many therapeutic approaches have been
developed, the mortality associated with ARDS remains relatively high (Tsushima
L. Yoshihara
)
Institute for Computational Mechanics, Technische Universität München, Boltzmannstr. 15,
85747 Garching, Germany
e-mail: wall@lnm.mw.tum.de
·
M. Ismail
·
W. A . Wa l l (
 
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