Arteries and algorithms : multiple scale modelling of flow in the cardiovascular system

This review outlines some of the different scales involved in computationally modelling arterial networks. Starting at the largest O(1m) scale we highlight current activities in reduced modelling of the pulse waves. We then focus on the O(10-1m) scale and provide an example of how CFD can be applied to understand the role of mixing in small amplitude helical pipes at physiologically relevant flow conditions. Finally we motivate the interaction at O(10-3m) scale by considering how localised flow features are suggestive of different types of arterial disease patterns.