Cardiovascular 3D Modeling and Simulation Program | Research & Innovation

To assist in surgical planning, we simulate the flow of blood — known as computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis — for patients who have complex single ventricle heart disease. We use this tool to predict many important aspects of a planned Fontan surgery, including distribution of blood flow to the lungs, how to minimize energy loss, and which Fontan option is best for the patient. Each patient has different surgical options planned on their individual anatomy; these can be evaluated with simulation before surgery. These simulation tools help us maximize the efficiency of blood flow and better understand the risk of blood clot formation after the Fontan procedure.

A cardiac surgery team typically must create a complex, curved three-dimensional patch based upon the heart when it is empty of blood and with no pressure. Using 3D models of patient heart anatomy, we are designing patches that will work better for the heart under physiological conditions, when the heart is pressurized and beating. A more efficient patch enhances the repairs that close a hole between the two ventricles and can be involved in the redirection of blood flow from one ventricle to the aortic or pulmonary valve.

We are closely studying the physical properties of vascular tissues and testing the patches used in the operating room for heart reconstruction. This helps us better understand how different patch materials compare to each other and to a patient’s native tissues (considering factors such as elasticity, stiffness, and age). This understanding helps us plan better patches.

Our team is spearheading a process to optimize CT and MRI scans so that we can better visualize the mitral and tricuspid valves in patient-specific 3D models. The modeling has a key role in planning the repair of complex valves, including AV canal valves. We work closely with cardiac surgeons in a weekly valve conference to review and refine the 3D models and the computational planning techniques behind it all.

Like our surgical planning initiative for mitral and tricuspid valves, our team is improving how we visualize the aortic valve to help surgeons understand the reasons behind the dysfunction in a patient’s aortic valve. We combine engineering principles with anatomical understanding to help surgeons better plan aortic valve repairs.