An integrated model of the human cardiopulmonary system

Abstract

We have developed a mathematical model of the human cardiopulmonary system that is able to simulate the normal functions of the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, as well as their coupled interactions. Included in the model are descriptions of atrial and ventricular mechanics, the hemodynamics of the systemic and pulmonic circulations, baroreflex control of arterial pressure, airway and lung mechanics, as well as, gas transport at alveolar-capillary membrane. With the suitable parameter set, the integrated cardiopulmonary model yielded pressure, volume and flow waveforms that agree well with published data. In addition, The model demonstrated stability under large amplitude perturbations of the physiological variables, such as Valsalva Maneuver.