Development of a simulator for endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms

Ann Biomed Eng. 1998 Sep-Oct;26(5):798-802. doi: 10.1114/1.66.

Abstract

The design and development of a simulator for endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is described. The simulator consists of an interchangeable model of a human AAA based on computed tomography data and is produced by means of computer-aided design and manufacture (CAD/CAM) techniques. The model has renal, iliac, and femoral arteries, and is perfused with a temperature controlled blood-analog fluid under simulated physiological flow conditions. "Fluoroscopic imaging" is simulated by a computerized imaging system that uses visible light. A movable video camera relays images in the antero-posterior and lateral planes of the AAA to a monitor. The imaging system allows "arteriography" and "road-mapping" to be performed so as to facilitate accurate deployment of endovascular stent-grafts. The system has been used for teaching and demonstrating endovascular techniques to clinicians, as well as the evaluation of new stent-graft devices. Its successful incorporation into endovascular workshops has demonstrated its role in the training of clinicians in endovascular repair of AAA.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Angiography
  • Angioplasty / methods*
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / diagnostic imaging
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / surgery*
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis
  • Computer-Aided Design*
  • Equipment Design
  • Humans
  • Models, Anatomic*
  • Stents
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Vascular Surgical Procedures / education*
  • Videotape Recording