Mathematical modelling of cerebral haemodynamics and their effects on ICP

Introduction

Electrical-equivalence mathematical models that integrate vascular and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) compartments perform well in simulations of dynamic cerebrovascular variations and their transient effects on intracranial pressure (ICP). However, ICP changes due to sustained vascular diameter changes have not been comprehensively examined. We hypothesise that changes in cerebrovascular resistance (CVR) alter the resistance of the bulk flow of interstitial fluid (ISF).

Research question

We hypothesise that changes in CVR alter the resistance of the bulk flow of ISF, thus allowing simulations of ICP in response to sustained vascular diameter changes.

Material and methods

A lumped parameter model with vascular and CSF compartments was constructed and converted into an electrical analogue. The flow and pressure responses to transient hyperaemic response test (THRT) and CSF infusion test (IT) were observed. Arterial blood pressure (ABP) was manipulated to simulate ICP plateau waves. The experiments were repeated with a modified model that included the ISF compartment.

Results

Simulations of the THRT produced identical cerebral blood flow (CBF) responses. ICP generated by the new model reacted in a similar manner as the original model during ITs. Plateau pressure reached during ITs was however higher in the ISF model. Only the latter was successful in simulating the onset of ICP plateau waves in response to selective blood pressure manipulations.

Discussion and conclusion

Our simulations highlighted the importance of including the ISF compartment, which provides mechanism explaining sustained haemodynamic influences on ICP. Consideration of such interactions enables accurate simulations of the cerebrovascular effects on ICP.