FEA Analysis of a Sutured Artery: A Novel Approach to Modelling Vascular Anastomosis

Vascular anastomosis is a critical surgical technique that involves the stitching of two vessels in a manner that successfully restores patent blood flow and is essential to many surgical procedures. This study introduces a novel Finite Element Analysis (FEA) methodology for modelling the intricate interactions between the artery wall and stitches for the case of an end-to-end anastomosis. Unlike previous models, this methodology uses a line-body to represent the suture and apply a pre-tension effect to the artery wall in a manner that is analogous to the stitch being tightened. The development procedure of the model and motivation behind the significant decisions made are outlined comprehensively. The model successfully converged on a solution, showing significant deformation of the artery wall as a result of the applied tension, with a subsequent successful response to an applied internal pressure. A critical analysis of the method was then conducted to establish areas of improvement, which can then be used to inform and motivate areas of further study.

Vascular anastomosis is a critical surgical technique that involves the stitching of two vessels in...