Modular 3D-Printed Vessel Models for Pulsatile Surgical Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical training models lack realistic simulation of blood vessel systems, particularly in neurosurgery, and do not adequately replicate the arterial pulse and blood circulation, making them less effective for training minimally invasive procedures.
Innovation Solution
A modular medical training model with patient-specific vascular geometries and a quick coupling system that simulates blood circulation, allowing for interchangeable and realistic simulation of different training scenarios, including patient-specific aneurysms, using additively manufactured vascular models with standardized and adaptable connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a training model uses standardized anatomical replicas without patient-specific customization, then the manufacturing complexity is reduced and production is simplified, but the training realism and applicability to specific clinical scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The training model is divided into modular components including a base anatomical replica and interchangeable exercise regions. Each exercise region can be independently manufactured and attached to the base model, allowing customization without redesigning the entire system. This segmentation enables standardized production of the base model while allowing tailored exercise regions to address specific training scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The exercise regions incorporate adjustable parameters such as variable vessel diameters, different aneurysm sizes and positions, and customizable flow characteristics. These parameters can be modified through additive manufacturing processes to create patient-specific geometries while maintaining the same basic modular structure, thus achieving customization without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
2Reliability
If the training model includes a functional blood circulation system with pulsating flow, then the training realism and physiological accuracy are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The blood circulation system uses a pump to generate pulsating fluid flow that mimics arterial pulse propagation. The system employs hydraulic principles to create pressure waves in the range of 8 to 17 kPa, replicating physiological conditions. This approach achieves realistic physiological simulation using well-established fluid dynamics rather than complex mechanical or biological systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The circulation system components are nested within the anatomical replica structure, with vessels and flow channels integrated into the 3D-printed anatomy. The pump and flow generation mechanisms are contained within the base model, allowing the functional system to be embedded in the structural replica without adding external complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the exercise region is detachably connected to the anatomical replica, then the adaptability for different training scenarios is improved, but the positioning accuracy and sealing reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A coupling piece serves as an intermediary element between the exercise region and the anatomical replica base. This coupling piece incorporates sealing surfaces and positioning features that ensure both the detachability needed for exchangeability and the reliability needed for secure attachment. The coupling piece mediates between the conflicting requirements of easy removal and secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling interface incorporates localized sealing surfaces and positioning structures specifically at the connection points. These local features provide the necessary sealing and positioning accuracy without affecting the rest of the modular components, allowing reliable connection while maintaining overall system adaptability.
4Manufacturing precision
If the training model uses additively manufactured patient-specific vascular geometries, then the training realism and anatomical accuracy are improved, but the manufacturing time and production complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Patient-specific vascular geometries are prepared and manufactured in advance using additive manufacturing technology. The 3D printing process can rapidly produce complex anatomical structures once the digital models are ready, significantly reducing production time compared to traditional manufacturing methods. Pre-manufacturing the exercise regions allows for quick exchange during training sessions without time-consuming on-site fabrication.
Data Source
AI summary
A medical training model includes a base frame, a fluid system arranged on the frame and configured to simulate a blood circulation replacement system, and at least one additively manufactured individualized vessel model with a patient-specific replicated lumen. The vessel model may be interchangeably connectable to the fluid system by at least one hydraulic quick coupling having coupling pieces such as a plug and a sleeve or bushing. Each coupling piece may contain an inner flow channel, and at least one coupling piece is designed as an adapter with a diameter-changing flow channel course that transitions from the patient-specific lumen to a standardized coupling connection opening. The flow channel course may include a conical region providing a smooth, edgeless transition between differing diameters, with the conical region formed as a hollow shaft truncated cone for flat bearing and sealing when the coupling pieces are locked together.