The Influence of the Anomalous Viscosity of Blood upon its Oscillatory Flow

Abstract

From mathematical considerations, it is shown that the shear-dependent viscosity coefficient of blood in major arteries is such that the "asymptotic" viscosity coefficient can safely be used in calculations of flow in these vessels. In small vessels <0.5 mm diameter), due to the additional effect of the'' "marginal plasmatic zone", it is shown that there are inaccuracies in estimating flow from the pressure-gradient but that this effect is negligible in large vessels. It is estimated that not more than 2% error will be introduced if the asymptotic viscosity coefficient is used in calculating flow from the pressure gradient in large vessels.