Advanced imaging and digitization of preserved heart specimens using virtual reality - A primer

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Cardiovascular Imaging
• Digital Pathology

Background:

• Preserved congenital heart specimens are crucial for training but are not widely accessible.
• Existing training methods lack global reach and digital integration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of using advanced cardiac imaging (CT and MRI) and virtual reality (VR) for digitizing preserved heart specimens.
• To determine the optimal imaging modality for creating high-fidelity virtual models of cardiac pathology.

Main Methods:

• Seven preserved congenital heart specimens were imaged using high-dose CT and MRI.
• Three-dimensional (3D) models were generated from the imaging data.
• Physicians performed virtual dissections and scored model fidelity in a VR environment.

Main Results:

• MRI, particularly with T2 spoiled gradient-echo sequences, provided superior fidelity and tissue characterization compared to CT.
• CT excelled at external anatomy but showed reduced fidelity for delicate internal structures.
• No specimens were damaged during the imaging process.

Conclusions:

• High-dose CT and MRI can effectively digitize preserved heart specimens with high fidelity at a low cost.
• Virtual reality and 3D modeling offer a scalable solution for global accessibility of cardiac pathology training materials.
• Digital, virtualized specimens enhance intuitive understanding of complex cardiac anatomy for professionals.