Exploring maternal-placental-fetal interactions: A hybrid modeling approach for biomedical engineering

Abstract

Monitoring fetal oxygen delivery during pregnancy, especially labor and delivery, is challenging due to limited real-time data. This paper presents a hybrid model combining agent-based and system dynamics modeling to simulate oxygen delivery from mother to fetus through the placenta. The model’s potential applications are explored in two areas: as a tool for clinical decision support by simulating patient-specific scenarios to predict and manage fetal oxygen levels and as an educational resource for medical students to understand maternal-placental-fetal physiology. The model, implemented in NetLogo, consists of an agent-based component visualizing blood flow at the placenta and a system dynamics component modeling maternal and fetal cardiovascular systems using ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Scenarios, including normal conditions, maternal anemia, and other pathological states, are simulated to observe their effects on fetal oxygen delivery (FDO2). Simulations show that changes in parameters such as hemoglobin levels, vascular resistance, and heart rate significantly affect FDO2. For instance, FDO2 drops below a critical threshold in maternal anemia, highlighting the model’s ability to predict potential fetal hypoxia. Additionally, the model captures the impact of uterine contractions and anesthesia on FDO2>, providing insights into dynamic changes during labor or surgical interventions. The model demonstrates promise as a clinical decision-support tool and educational platform. However, limitations include simplified physiological representations and the need for validation with clinical data. This hybrid modeling approach offers a novel way to enhance the understanding and management of fetal oxygen delivery, improving patient care and medical education.