Introduction

The invention allows to estimate the instant three-dimensional geometry of the cardiovascular system and to reconstruct the hemodynamics with excellent spatial and temporal resolution. Quantities of clinical interest that cannot be measured in vivo can be measured with non-invasive techniques such as: the instantaneous pressure field, mechanical hemolysis and the shear stress generated on the tissues. The method allows to generate a patient-specific computational cardiovascular model from ultrasound data (less harmful and less expensive than other clinical measurement techniques).

Technical features

Our idea of ​​data assimilation and data reconstruction coupled with a computational cardiovascular model educated on the clinical data of ultrasound, reconstructs the three-dimensional morphology of blood vessels and heart chambers, reproduces the three-dimensional hemodynamic flows, the three-dimensional pressure field and the related loads on the fabrics. The model can be used as a complement to the ultrasound systems currently used without the need to modify / replace the machines already in use. The use of high-performance numerical computation reduces waiting times for the generation of the virtual cardiovascular model and the measurement of clinical data. The commercial application of the proposed method may have a strong impact in all countries where ultrasound is used; the application is therefore potentially world-wide. Of particular importance is the use of the method in developing countries where more expensive scanning techniques (such as MRI and CT) are less widespread and, generally, not within the reach of patients.

Possible Applications

• Development of an accessory for “augmented three-dimensional vision” of ultrasound to enhance the traditional ultrasound machines currently in use;
• Produces a patient-specific computational cardiovascular model starting from ultrasound data.

Advantages

• Integration into current ultrasound machines without the need to modify / replace the machines already in use;
• More effective prognostics with the use of more accurate data on blood flow within the cardiovascular system;
• Ability to measure the efforts exerted by the flow on the heart walls;
• Reduction of waiting times for the generation of the virtual cardiovascular model and the measurement of clinical data.