Numerical simulation of a pulse wave propagation in a fluid-filled elastic tube

Abstract The propagation of pulse waves in fluid-filled elastic tubes is essential for understanding arterial hemodynamics. In this study, a nonlinear model is developed and reduced to a Korteweg–de Vries (KdV) equation under long-wave and weakly nonlinear assumptions. Analytical sech 2 solitary-wave solutions are obtained and validated numerically. The results reveal amplitude-dependent behavior: wave speed increases with amplitude, while pulse width decreases, reflecting the balance between nonlinearity and dispersion. These scaling laws establish a direct link to physiological quantities. The propagation speed corresponds to pulse wave velocity (PWV), and waveform steepening indicates changes in arterial stiffness. The findings suggest that arterial pulse waves can be described as weakly nonlinear solitary waves, providing a physical basis for pulse wave analysis and supporting noninvasive assessment of vascular abnormalities.