New Insight into Microvascular Perfusion by Analyzing Pipe Flow in a Cylindrical Elastic Shell

Background: Microvascular perfusion, a kind of regional perfusion, plays important roles in delivering oxygen and nutrients, and regulating blood pressure and responses to inflammation. Aim: The aim of this research is to analyze the characteristics of microvascular perfusion by conducting pipe flow in a circular elastic tube. Methods: A model was established with circular elastic tube to mimic microvascular perfusion. The velocity of pressure waves was calculated according to the time that the liquid took to spilt over. What’s more, the characteristics and significance of microvascular flow and arteriovenous anastomoses (AVAs) were analyzed. Results: It took the liquid about 0.1 second to spill over from the model, and the velocity of pressure waves is greater than 100 m/s in the elastic pipe. A mechanical switch structure and the corresponding mechanism were proposed for microvascular perfusion in AVAs. Conclusion: Microvascular perfusion maintains a considerable constancy of hemodynamics in different tissues, when ventricular contraction changes perfusion pressure to meet metabolic demands appropriately. This theory will help us to gain a new perspective in microvascular flow.