Surgically repaired coarctation of the aorta (flow model)

thingiverse

This is a highly detailed, patient-specific blood flow model designed to thoroughly examine the effectiveness of surgical repair for a severe condition affecting the aorta known as coarctation of the aorta (or 'COA'). The intricate model includes the entire aorta, all supra-aortic branch vessels, and specialized fittings that enable the tubing necessary to deliver a realistic blood-mimicking fluid. Also included are post-processed images from a 3D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exam which measures blood flow through the surgically repaired section of the aorta (both 'in-vivo', i.e. in the actual patient and 'in-vitro' i.e. in the flow model). The repaired area is clearly indicated by arrows pointing out where the coarctation previously existed. For more detailed information regarding the imaging process and patient demographics, please refer to the case-study below: Bradley D. Allen, Alex J. Barker, James C. Carr, Robert A. Silverberg, Michael Markl European Heart Journal - Cardiovascular Imaging Oct 2012, jes225; DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jes225 http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/ehjci/jes225 Print Settings Printer Brand: MakerBot Printer: MakerBot Replicator 2X Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: Medium Infill: 100 Notes: I print it upside down (i.e. with the 3 branches flush to the build plate) with no rafts or supports and 100% infill. Rafts and infill will obstruct the lumen of the vessel. Post-Printing 4D flow MRI of the original patient which shows complex blood flow due to the presence of a bicuspid aortic valve and coarctation of the aorta. Patient specific aorta model printed from the MRI data shown above. Comparison of in-vivo MRI measurements with in-vitro flow model