Caracterización del flujo cefalorraquídeo en el espacio subaracnoideo espinal

Abstract

The present dissertation aims at characterizing the cerebrospinal fluid flow in the spinal subarachnoid space, a liquid physically similar to water, whose properties ensure the correct performance of the nervous system. The analysis of this motion yields clinical relevance, due to its role as substance¿s transport medium (i.e. intrathecal drug delivery). Thus, and following the models, proposed by the research group in previous works, the main objective of this thesis is a profound analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid motion and its solute transport. To that end, a first detailed, analytical and experimental parametric study of the governing flow parameters is developed, using the simplified model and close-to-real geometries. Then, the effect induced by the micro-anatomy in the spinal canal is evaluated, which induces modifications in the base flow. Finally, the flow along the cerebral aqueduct will be studied, which sets the basis for further diagnoses of relating diseases (hydrocephalus).