Simulation of Eisenmenger syndrome with ventricular septal defect using equivalent electronic system

Abstract

Background: In this study, we aim to investigate the simulation of the cardiovascular system using an electronic circuit model under normal and pathological conditions, especially the Eisenmenger syndrome. Methods and Results: The Eisenmenger syndrome includes a congenital communication between the systemic and pulmonary circulation, with resultant pulmonary arterial hypertension and right-to-left reversal of flow through the defect. When pulmonary vascular resistance exceeds systemic vascular resistance, it results in hypoxaemia and cyanosis. The Westkessel model including Resistor-Inductance-Capacitance pi-segments was chosen in order to simulate both systemic and pulmonary circulation. The left and right heart are represented by trapezoidal shape stiffness for better simulation results. The Eisenmenger syndrome is simulated using a resistance (septal resistance) connected between the left ventricle and right ventricle points of the model. Matlab (R) is used for the model implementation. In this model, although there is a remarkable increase in the pulmonary artery pressure and right ventricle pressure, left ventricle pressure, aortic pressure, aortic flow, and pulmonary compliance decrease in the Eisenmenger syndrome. In addition, left-to-right septal flow reversed in these diseases. Conclusion: Our model is effective and available for simulating normal cardiac conditions and cardiovascular diseases, especially the Eisenmenger syndrome.