Using Discrete Multi-Physics for studying the dynamics of emboli in flexible venous valves

Emboli, which are parts of blood clots, can be stuck in the vasculature of various organs (most frequently, lungs) and cause their malfunction or even death. In this work, using mathematical modelling, different types of emboli-like structures are studied in a double venous valve system. The model is implemented with a fully Lagrangian Discrete Multi-Physics technique and the flow is governed by flexible walls. The study shows the effect of different diameters and lengths of a free embolus in the flow surrounding the valve. The presence of an embolus strongly affects the dynamics of both the fluid and the leaflets in venous valves and the permanence of the embolus in the valve chamber is narrowly linked with its length.