Effects of eliminating wave reflections on developed pressure and flow: a model based study

Abstract

Absrrocr-The effects of wave reflections on the pressure and flow developed by the left ventricle were studied using an arterial svstem model coupled to a time-varying compliance simulation of the left ventricle. With this model. reflections could be reduced or eliminated while retaining the dc characteristics of the system. This allowed for the stud! of the effects of wave reflections on the dynamically beating left ventricle, without the influence of changes i n peripheral resistance. Reduction of wave reflections yields increases in peak systolic. diastolic. and mean aortic pressures and stroke volume. Stroke volume and mean pressure increased only in the range where strong reflection occurs.