Reproducing patient-specific 3D-model of pulmonary artery hemodynamics by means of in vitro benchtop simulation

Abstract

Aim: Patient-specific fluid dynamic simulation of pulmonary arteries can be a valuable tool in pre-procedural planning. Materials & methods: For three patients, soft, deformable models of the pulmonary arteries were 3D printed from cardiac magnetic resonance data. In vitro hemodynamics were replicated using a gear flow pump, 40% glycerol solution and a physical Windkessel module. The pulmonary pressures were compared with patient cardiac catheterization pressure. Results: The pulmonary artery pressures and flow volumes had an adequate goodness of fit except for pulmonary pressures in patient 2. Conclusion: Cardiac magnetic resonance angiogram and flow volume data can be leveraged to generate a patient-specific 3D model and reproduce in vivo hemodynamics by means of in vitro simulation.