Abstract
A numerical simulation has been performed on the blood flow patterns in a multi-branch artery during an embolization procedure. The procedure, performed with drug-eluting particulates is designed to occlude blood vessels which feed a tumor. As particulates are injected into the blood stream, they interfere with the flow patterns which previously had existed uninterrupted. This interference causes a maldistribution of flow down daughter artery branches. The patterns of maldistribution change as the embolizing particle travels down the artery toward the target or as particles begin to accumulate at the target. A consequence of the alterations of flow patterns is that future injections of particulates may be diverted from their intended targets and may, consequently, travel down non-targeted artery branches towards otherwise healthy tissue.