Biomodex是3D打印的用于医学培训目的的解剖模型的提供商，已为该新的3D印刷培训系统启动transseptal puncture procedure。
通过模拟真实心脏组织的感觉，几何形状和触觉反馈，该模型可以实现electrophysiologists and cardiologists to practice in a more realistic environment, and is even ultrasound-compatible. As such, the model can be used in ultrasound-guided practice runs, just like the real thing would be.
Dr. Juan Granada, President of theCardiovascular Research Foundation, states, “Adoption of emerging structural heart technologies require the operators to receive more specialized training to further industry adoption. Biomodex’s latest solution offers an innovative alternative over traditional training methods because it enables physicians to gain experience by working on humanized models and using clinically adopted imaging tools in a real cath-lab environment.”
The transseptal puncture procedure
Of the four chambers of the heart, the left atrium is considered the most difficult to access through the skin. While it can be accessed through the left ventricle, the invading catheter is required to make two 180° turns, which is cumbersome for even the most seasoned of medical professionals. This is where the transseptal puncture (TP) comes in, as it provides a direct route to the left atrium through the intra-atrial septum, which separates the left from the right atrium.
As ingenious as the technique is, it comes with some inherent risks of injury, particularly to nearby heart tissues and valves. To alleviate some of this risk, the procedure is usually ultrasound-guided, giving doctors a clear visual of the position of the catheter. Regardless, the procedure requires an immense amount of skill and experience for patient safety, driving the need for realistic training devices.
美国BioModex销售副总裁Bill Perusek补充说：“由于房颤的发生率增加和其他结构性心脏病，TP程序的数量一直在上升，这反过来又推动了新设备和创新治疗方法的开发。我们的目的是提供一种现代化的现实培训解决方案，该解决方案可以缩短这种苛刻的程序的学习曲线，并使更多的医生能够更快地提高他们的技能。”
3D printing a heart model
The TP model comprises two main sections – a reusable frame modeling the vena cava, right atrium, and aorta, and a single-use replaceable septum cartridge, whereby the septum receives a piercing every practice run.
Biomodex 3D prints the multi-polymer anatomical twin using its own proprietary printing processes, which are called INVIVOTECH and ECHOTECH. The former is designed to mimic the mechanical behaviour of cardiac tissue and its surrounding blood vessels, enabling the integration of ‘real feel’ biomechanics. The latter, on the other hand, models the acoustic properties of human tissue, which allows for the visualization of the 3D printed models under ultrasound scanners.
格拉纳达总结说：“由于培训模型是3D印刷的事实，我们可以调整培训以应对更复杂的解剖学或特定的技术挑战。”
The 3D printing of medical models for educational applications is long-heralded as one of the technology’s more classical use cases. Just last month,3D printer OEMStratasys公司provided a software update for itsJ750 Digital Anatomy 3D printer更好地复制多孔骨结构，纤维化组织和韧带。与Biomodex的技术一样，该系统最初是为模仿心脏和血管等软心脏组织的设计而设计的。
Taking a more virtual approach, medical VR specialistRealize Medicalrecently announced a partnership with peripheral manufacturerLogitechto kit out itsElucis VR platform with interactivity。Together, the partners are working to integrate Logitech’s VR Ink Pilot Edition stylus into Elucis, allowing users to precisely draw and edit 3D medical models directly in a virtual space, with further options to print the models if need be.
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Featured image shows the 3D printed model of the heart. Photo via Biomodex.
