ABSTRACT
Pulsatile blood flow in stenotic vessels is investigated using a Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes framework. Two simplified models for arterial stenoses were analyzed: a two-dimensional channel with a one-sided semicircular constriction and a smooth axisymmetric stenosis. Although these flows are at a relatively low Reynolds number, the constriction induces separation that causes the flow to transition to turbulence for most large arteries. The prediction of such flows represents a challenge for RANS turbulence models and warrants a closer look at their low-Re modifications.