Development of a method to construct three-dimensional finite element models of thoracic aortic aneurysms from MRI images

Most patients die when thoracic aortic aneurysms rupture. In order to avoid the ruptures, the aneurysms are replaced with aortic prostheses when their maximum diameter exceeds 5 cm. Because this criterion is based on the experiences, some aneurysms rupture even if the diameters are smaller than this criterion. To treat the aneurysm properly, it is necessary to find out the new criterion. The rupture is thought to have a close relationship with the stress in the wall. Hence, there is much research about the stress, but this research uses the straight tube model. The model shape does not seem appropriate to a thoracic aorta shape. Hence, we developed the method to construct three-dimensional finite element models of thoracic aortic aneurysms from MRI images.