Optic nerve subarachnoid space cerebral spinal fluid computational fluid dynamics

Abstract

Cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) is driven throughout the subarachnoid space (SAS) and serves a variety of crucial functions. The behavior of CSF within the optic nerve subarachnoid space (ONSAS) has special interest because it is relatively unknown. Additionally, the effects of improper flow characteristics of CSF within the ONSAS could be a contributing factor to optical neuropathies such as glaucoma. Rendering a three-dimensional model of the optic nerve (ON) and associated SAS can help provide a better representation of the physical boundary conditions that influence CSF flow. Utilizing this model, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) of the CSF within the ONSAS can be conducted to provide a visualization of the CSF behavior. In addition, flow rate and velocity of the ONSAS CSF can be calculated. Determination of the healthy velocity and volumetric flow rate of CSF within the ONSAS could help doctors to estimate ICP without utilizing invasive procedures such as lumbar puncture. The understanding of this flow within the ONSAS could provide medical professionals with more information prior to proceeding with invasive procedures and diagnosis of optic neuropathies. As a result, this study aims to establish a procedure for simulating the CSF flow within the ONSAS and determination of CSF velocity and volumetric flow rate.