Variations in geometry and shear rate distribution in casts of human aortic bifurcations.

Shear rates measured at sites along the walls of ten casts of human aortic bifurcations are presented to provide an indication of the variability in the shear rate distribution that can occur among individuals. The geometric characteristics and flow parameters for each of the casts are also given. Much of the variability in wall shear distribution seen here results from variations in arterial geometry; variations in flow parameters can widen further the normal range of shear distributions.