Examination of a Human Heart utilizing Virtual Reality, Additive Manufacturing and Computational Technologies

Abstract

Purpose In this paper, an innovative approach concerning the investigation of the human heart is introduced employing state-of-the-art technologies. The presented technological tools aim in the creation of an innovative digital environment, where gaining surgical experience and developing pre-operative strategies could be achieved without the risk and anxiety of an actual heart surgery. Methods Sophisticated algorithms were developed in order to automatically reconstruct a 3D model of a human heart based on DICOM data and to segment the main parts that constitutes it. Taking into account the reconstructed 3D model, a diagnosis of the examined patient can be derived, where in the present study a Coarctation of the Aorta (CoA) clinical case was inspected. In addition, numerical approaches were considered that are able to simulate flows on complex shapes. Finally, a physical model was 3D printed via the MultiJet 3D Printing (MJP) process utilizing flexible materials. Results The outcomes of the computation analysis coupled with the automatically reconstructed and segmented patient-specific 3D model are inserted in a Virtual Reality (VR) environment, where the clinicians can visualize the blood flow at the vessel walls and train on real-life medical scenarios, enhancing that way the procedural understanding prior to the actual operation. Moreover, the 3D printed heart possesses an adequate mechanical response replicating the mechanical properties as well as the geometrical characteristics of the investigated human heart. Conclusions The present study introduced a robust software module for inspecting human hearts, aiding that way the medical doctors on the optimal preoperative assessment of patients with heart diseases using as input only the DICOM data of the examined patient.