New tool helps surgeons plan heart valve replacements precisely

New tool helps surgeons plan heart valve replacements precisely

Scientists at Queen Mary University of London and Barts Health have developed an innovative tool that simulates blood flow in the aorta, helping heart surgeons plan operations more precisely. The digital model, known as TAVR-AID, is unique because it creates a personalized digital twin of each patient's aorta and allows doctors to test surgical approaches before performing surgery.

The simulation predicts how blood will flow after valve replacement and helps doctors make decisions such as: B. in choosing the best valve and the possible results of the operation. This personalized approach can improve surgical planning and help prevent complications.

Lead inventor Professor Anthony Mathur, a Queen Mary researcher and consultant cardiologist and co-director of research at Barts Health, explains: "TAVR-AID is not intended to replace human decision-making, but to enhance it. We use CT scans to create one." digital twin of the patient's aorta and echocardiography to determine the severity of the stenosis we are treating. This allows us to simulate their blood flow.

He adds: "The AI ​​model will use this simulation and the patient's health records to predict which valve to use, what size it should be, how we position it and what the risk of complications such as stroke, leaks or device failure is."

Heart valve replacement is a delicate procedure because the choice of valve and its replacement are critical to ensuring proper blood flow and heart function. If done incorrectly, circulatory problems can damage the new valve. Surgeons must carefully consider factors such as the size, shape and angle of the aorta, as well as the patient's individual health needs.

The research was led by Professor Mathur, a consultant cardiologist and co-director of research at Barts Health and a researcher at Queen Mary University of London. The project also brought together a team of experts, cardiologists, surgeons, engineers, computer scientists and patient representatives.

This is an extraordinary example of how multidisciplinary collaboration can address complex healthcare challenges. By combining clinical expertise, computational modeling, artificial intelligence and the patient perspective, we have developed a personalized digital twin approach that could make a real difference in patient outcomes.”

Prof Greg Slabaugh, Director of Queen Mary's Digital Environment Research Institute

He continues: “The mix of clinical insights and technological capabilities makes our models sophisticated and state-of-the-art, but also based on practical, real-world clinical needs.”
The invention is being driven by Queen Mary Innovation, the university's technology transfer arm, which is looking for a commercial partner to help make the technology available to clinicians.

Sources: