A theoretical study of left ventricular and heart muscle dynamics

The characteristics of the left ventricle of the human heart considered as a pump have been extensively analysed. Using a new approach relying heavily on the Tensor Calculus, a theoretical model describing the mechanical and dynamical operation of the left ventricle has been developed. This has considerably greater versatility than previously proposed models. In particular the physiological shape, both under normal as well as many abnormal situations, is realistically simulated. Further, the mechanical behaviour of the ventricular wall is synthesised from anatomical data concerning the cardiac muscle fibre structure of the wall. Its mechanical and dynamical properties are then, as in the physiological situation, dependent on those of the muscle fibre. These fibre properties have also been fully investigated and a simple new model for cardiac muscle dynamics, incorporating active state, proposed. This description of the ventricular behaviour in terms of muscle properties represents the first logically structured link between cardiac muscle fibre characteristics and ventricular performance.

Grantor

Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery

Year dc:date.issued

1973

Author dc:creator

• Hadingham, Paul Trahair

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Milner, Morris

• Heart function tests

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/32053

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/32053