Computational Biomechanics Modeling of the Cerebrospinal Fluid: Model Development and Application to Chiari Type 1 Malformation

The brain and spinal cord are surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid. This water-like fluid moves back and forth following the heart rhythm and breathing, and instantly due to actions such as coughing and sitting up. In healthy individuals, cerebrospinal fluid can move freely, allowing such movements to occur unhindered. However, in patients with Chiari type 1 malformation, a partial obstruction disrupts cerebrospinal fluid flow. During this PhD research, I developed computational models that allow simulating cerebrospinal fluid dynamics around the brain and spinal cord and then used these models to investigate the impact of Chiari type 1 malformation. This work has led to advanced computational models and highlighted the significance of buffering mechanisms and coughing in Chiari type 1 malformation.