Patient-Specific Cardiac Simulation Device with Echogenic Multi-Material Model
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current simulation devices for training and planning in structural heart disease interventions lack realistic biomechanical behavior and visibility on ultrasound imaging, failing to accurately replicate the interaction between cardiovascular walls and surgical tools.
Innovation Solution
A patient-specific cardiovascular simulation device with a multi-material cardiac model that mimics anatomical and biomechanical properties, including echogenic materials visible on ultrasound, and a system that includes an esophageal and vascular access system to simulate real-world procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional simulation devices are used, then basic training functionality is provided, but realistic biomechanical behavior and ultrasound visibility are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple materials with distinct biomechanical properties (stiffness, elasticity, density) to construct the cardiac model, allowing each tissue type (myocardium, blood, valve leaflets) to be represented by materials that replicate their actual mechanical behavior. This composite approach enables realistic deformation and stress responses under physiological loads.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the cardiac model are assigned different material properties corresponding to specific tissue types. The myocardium uses hyperelastic materials to simulate muscle contraction, while blood vessels use elastomeric materials to replicate compliance. This localized material assignment ensures that each anatomical region exhibits its characteristic biomechanical behavior.
2Measurement precision
If conventional simulation devices are used, then general training is possible, but accurate patient-specific anatomy replication is achieved
Solution Approach 1:
Patient-specific anatomical data is acquired through imaging (CT, MRI, echocardiography) and processed into 3D models before the physical cardiac model is manufactured. This preliminary digital modeling allows for precise customization of each model's geometry to match the patient's actual anatomy, including congenital defects and surgical scars.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing process utilizes adjustable parameters in additive manufacturing or molding techniques to accurately reproduce patient-specific geometric features. By varying parameters such as layer thickness, resolution, and material composition during production, the system can faithfully replicate individual anatomical variations while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
3Loss of information
If conventional simulation devices are used, then basic procedural practice is enabled, but realistic ultrasound imaging integration is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The cardiac model incorporates materials with echogenic properties that reflect ultrasound waves to produce images visually similar to actual cardiac tissue. These echogenic materials are integrated into the model's structure, allowing trainees to practice interpreting ultrasound images in a realistic context during procedural training.
4Reliability
If conventional simulation devices are used, then general procedural training is provided, but realistic interaction between surgical tools and cardiovascular walls is simulated
Solution Approach 1:
The cardiac model uses composite materials that replicate the mechanical properties of actual cardiovascular tissues, including stiffness, elasticity, and friction characteristics. This allows surgical tools to interact with the model in a manner that closely mimics real tissue response, providing realistic haptic feedback during procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the model have locally optimized material properties to match specific tissue characteristics. For example, valve leaflets use flexible materials to simulate opening and closing motion, while myocardium uses hyperelastic materials to replicate contraction forces. This localized material assignment enhances the realism of tool-tissue interactions in each anatomical region.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances training and planning for structural heart disease interventions by providing a realistic simulation of patient-specific anatomy and mechanical behavior, improving precision and reducing the risk of complications during procedures.
Implementation Method 1
The variable echogenic materials may be visible on ultrasound imaging, with visual aspects close to those of biological tissues
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical simulation device is disclosed that allows a structural heart disease (SHD) team, including a surgeon and an imaging specialist to perform a simulated cardiac intervention procedure using a patient-specific model that replicates biomechanical and echogenic properties of a specific patient to be operated on. The surgical simulation device can include a station with a tank for receiving a patient-specific cartridge with the patient-specific model. The device can also include an esophageal access system in the station and a vascular access system that couples to an access port of the station.