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A novel computer modeling and simulation technique for bronchi motion tracking in human lungs under respiration
Byeong-Jun Kim1, Hyo Yeong Ahn2, Chanhee Song3
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Graduate School, and University Research Park, Pusan National University, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea.
Physical and Engineering Sciences in Medicine
|October 3, 2023
Summary
This study introduces a novel computer modeling technique to accurately track lung and tumor motion during respiration using patient-specific finite element models. The simulation results closely matched clinical data, validating the method for enhanced respiratory motion analysis.
Area of Science:
- Computational Biomechanics
- Medical Imaging and Simulation
- Respiratory System Modeling
Background:
- Accurate tracking of lung and tumor motion during respiration is crucial for effective radiation therapy and surgical planning.
- Existing methods may lack the precision to capture the complex, non-linear dynamics of lung parenchyma and surrounding structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel computer modeling and simulation technique for precise motion tracking of lung bronchi and tumors during respiration.
- To assess the accuracy of the proposed technique by comparing simulation results with clinical computed tomography (CT) data.
Main Methods:
- Creation of patient-specific finite element (FE) models of the respiratory system, incorporating surrounding organs (mediastinum, diaphragm, thorax).
- Selection and implementation of Ogden's hyperelastic model to describe the nonlinear material behavior of lung parenchyma.
- Simulation of respiration (exhalation to inhalation) using FE models and Ogden's model to track lung bronchi/tumor motion and calculate volume/area changes.
Main Results:
- The simulation technique demonstrated high accuracy, with average relative errors for landmark displacement between 1.10% and 2.67%.
- Average relative errors for lung cross-sectional area and volume changes were 0.20%-5.00% and 1.29%-9.23%, respectively.
- Simulation results showed good agreement with clinical inhalation/exhalation CT data from 9 subjects.
Conclusions:
- The proposed computer modeling and simulation technique provides a validated framework for accurate lung and tumor motion tracking during respiration.
- The method's ability to incorporate realistic material properties and surrounding anatomical structures enhances the fidelity of respiratory motion simulation.
- This validated technique has significant potential for improving personalized treatment planning in thoracic oncology and respiratory medicine.
