It has long been recognized that atherosclerosis tends to develop in certain areas of the artery. Blood flow is thus considered to play an important role in such development. However, the direct mechanisms of the influence of blood flow on atherosclerosis are controversial. Recently, a number of active studies in this field have been carried out around the world. This volume consists of the contributions to a symposium held on the subject and offers a report of latest findings.

Continuing demand for this book confirms that it remains relevant over 30 years after its first publication. The fundamental explanations are largely unchanged, but in the new introduction to this second edition the authors are on hand to guide the reader through major advances of the last three decades. With an emphasis on physical explanation rather than equations, Part I clearly presents the background mechanics. The second part applies mechanical reasoning to the component parts of the circulation: blood, the heart, the systemic arteries, microcirculation, veins and the pulmonary circulation. Each section demonstrates how an understanding of basic mechanics enhances our understanding of the function of the circulation as a whole. This classic book is of value to students, researchers and practitioners in bioengineering, physiology and human and veterinary medicine, particularly those working in the cardiovascular field, and to engineers and physical scientists with multidisciplinary interests.