Network models for pulsatile flow in open or porous perivascular spaces

The flow of CerebroSpinal Fluid (CSF) through the brain has been proposed as a key mechanism facilitating metabolic waste removal. Understanding the nature of this flow might therefore shed light on the development of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.

Experiments show that CSF travels preferentially through so-called perivascular spaces (PVSs). In this talk, we show how to develop suitable network models for this flow. We further discuss different discretization methods, and discuss how they extend to complex branching networks. Finally, we show that short wavelength, low frequency travelling vasomotion waves can introduce net flow in arterial trees.