Numerical simulation of glottal flow in surgically changed larynx

According to clinical experience the shape of the larynx seems to have a significant impact on the airflow degree and breathing pattern. In this study we perform a set of numerical experiments simulating the glottal flow in surgically changed larynx, where the vocal folds or false vocal are modified. We are aiming to find an optimal geometry of the larynx in terms of easiness for breathing. To this goal we numerically solve the system for weakly compressible Navier–Stokes equations using the finite element method and we compare the airflow resistance and the volumetric flow rate for the set of geometries for inspiration
as well as expiration. We discuss the optimal geometry with respect to the quality of breathing.