The Cleveland Clinic PediPump: virtual fitting studies in children using three-dimensional reconstructions of cardiac...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Pediatric Cardiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Implantable ventricular assist devices (VADs) present significant fitting challenges in pediatric patients, particularly those with small body surface areas.
• Accurate device placement is crucial for VAD efficacy and patient safety in pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine optimal placement strategies for the PediPump, a novel pediatric VAD, through virtual 3D modeling.
• To leverage advanced imaging techniques for pre-operative planning and device development in pediatric VAD implantation.

Main Methods:

• Creation of digital 3D models from computed tomographic (CT) datasets of pediatric hearts (n=13).
• Utilized 3D image processing software to render anatomical structures like the myocardium, great vessels, sternum, and rib cage.
• Virtual PediPump models were superimposed onto anatomical models using 3D manipulation software to assess fitting and potential tissue interference.

Main Results:

• Virtual fitting simulations identified potential interferences between the PediPump and surrounding cardiac and thoracic structures.
• The 3D modeling approach facilitated the exploration of various virtual fitting configurations.
• Preliminary fitting information was successfully generated to inform ongoing PediPump development.

Conclusions:

• Generation of 3D on-screen models of pediatric cardiac anatomy is effective for preliminary VAD fitting.
• Virtual modeling provides valuable insights for optimizing PediPump placement and guiding device design in pediatric patients.
• This methodology supports the advancement of VAD technology for the pediatric population.