Flow in idealised compliant human cystic duct models

Al-Atabi, M., Chin, S.B., Beck, S. and Luo, X.Y. (2007) Flow in idealised compliant human cystic duct models. In: Zhuang, F.G. and Li, J.C. (eds.) New Trends in Fluid Mechanics Research: Proceedings of the Fifth International Conference on Fluid Mechanics (Shanghai, 2007). Springer: Berlin ; Heidelberg, pp. 610-613. ISBN 9783540759942 (doi: 10.1007/978-3-540-75995-9_205)

Abstract

The functions of the cystic duct and the role of its complicated geometry (in particular the valves of Heister), in the delivery of bile flow have always been a subject of speculation. This paper reports on an experimental investigation of the flow in idealised, compliant cystic duct models. The valves of Heister were idealised using eight semi-circular alternating baffles fitted inside the compliant tubes. These tubes were arranged in configurations representing the anatomical configurations of real cystic ducts. Models both with and without baffles were tested for comparison. The results show that the valves of Heister seem to play a role in facilitating both the filling and emptying of the gallbladder. During the filling stage, which takes place at a low flow rate, the presence of the baffles seems to make the pressure drop required for the flow lower than that for a duct with no baffles. Whereas, during the gallbladder emptying phase, a certain ‘opening pressure’ is needed to initiate flow into the cystic duct. Again, the opening pressure required for the duct with baffles is lower than that required for the duct without baffles. The baffles appear to prevent the duct from collapsing completely by providing structural support; facilitating both filling and emptying of the gallbladder. These results are consistent with clinical observations and hence shed some light on the function of the valves of Heister.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Luo, Professor Xiaoyu
• Authors: Al-Atabi, M., Chin, S.B., Beck, S., and Luo, X.Y.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Mathematics and Statistics > Mathematics
• Publisher: Springer
• ISBN: 9783540759942