Rapid Manufacturing Method of Cardiovascular Models for Experimental Flow Analysis

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Patient-specific anatomical models are crucial for understanding cardiovascular conditions and surgical outcomes.
• Existing methods for creating accurate, transparent, and compliant physical models are often costly and time-consuming.
• Accurate modeling of vascular compliance is essential for simulating blood flow dynamics, particularly in vessels like the aorta.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a unique, cost-effective, and rapid fabrication process for patient-specific anatomical models.
• To achieve anatomical accuracy, optical transparency, and thin-walled compliance in physical cardiovascular models.
• To enable validation of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models and investigation of medical device performance in vitro.

Main Methods:

• A novel design and fabrication process was implemented using easily accessible raw materials.
• The method focuses on replicating patient-specific anatomy, dimensions, and compliance.
• Models were produced within 30 hours and at a material cost under $150.

Main Results:

• Successfully produced patient-specific physical models with accurate anatomical dimensions and compliance.
• The fabricated models exhibit optical properties consistent with clinical imaging techniques.
• The fabrication process is adaptable for various anatomies and compliance requirements.

Conclusions:

• This method offers a unique, rapid, and affordable approach to creating high-fidelity patient-specific cardiovascular models.
• These models serve as valuable tools for validating CFD simulations and assessing surgical interventions.
• The developed technique facilitates in vitro testing of medical devices and enhances understanding of hemodynamic consequences.