AVATREE: An open-source computational modelling framework modelling Anatomically Valid Airway TREE conformations.

Area of Science:

• Computational Biology
• Medical Imaging
• Pulmonary Medicine

Background:

• Obstructive pulmonary diseases like COPD and asthma involve airway constriction.
• Accurate patient-specific airway models are crucial for understanding disease mechanisms and treatment.
• Existing methods may not fully capture the complex 3D geometry and dynamic changes of the bronchial tree.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce AVATREE, a computational modeling framework for generating anatomically valid airway tree conformations.
• To enable simulation of bronchoconstriction in obstructive pulmonary conditions.
• To provide tools for visualization and analysis of patient-specific airway structures.

Main Methods:

• Generating personalized 3D airway geometry from computed tomography (CT) data via image segmentation.
• Extending patient-specific bronchial tree representation using a knowledge-based technique derived from morphometric studies.
• Implementing functionalities for simulating bronchoconstriction and visualizing spatial probability maps and local structure properties.

Main Results:

• AVATREE generates anatomically valid airway tree conformations from CT data.
• The framework successfully extends patient-specific airway models beyond visible depths.
• AVATREE supports simulation of bronchoconstriction relevant to COPD and asthma, with visualization tools.

Conclusions:

• AVATREE offers an open-source, C++ based toolbox with a graphical user interface for airway modeling.
• The framework facilitates studies on gas flow, mixing, ventilation, and particle deposition.
• AVATREE aims to enhance clinical decision-making for pulmonary diseases.