Comparison of hemodynamics and root configurations between remodeling and reimplantation methods for valve-sparing aortic root replacement: a pulsatile flow study.

Purpose: To compare the characteristics of reimplantation (RI) using grafts with sinuses and remodeling (RM) with/without external suture annuloplasty using a pulsatile flow simulator.

Methods: Porcine aortic roots were obtained from an abattoir, and six models of RM and RI with sinuses were prepared. External suture annuloplasty (ESA) was performed in the RM models to decrease the root diameter to 22 mm (RM-AP22) and 18 mm (RM-AP18).

Artificial intelligence-based technology to make a three-dimensional pelvic model for preoperative simulation of rectal cancer surgery using MRI.

Aim: A new technique that allows visualization of whole pelvic organs with high accuracy and usability is needed for preoperative simulation in advanced rectal cancer surgery. In this study, we developed an automated algorithm to create a three-dimensional (3D) model from pelvic MRI using artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Methods: This study included a total of 143 patients who underwent 3D MRI in a preoperative examination for rectal cancer.

Artificial intelligence-based technology for semi-automated segmentation of rectal cancer using high-resolution MRI.

Aim: Although MRI has a substantial role in directing treatment decisions for locally advanced rectal cancer, precise interpretation of the findings is not necessarily available at every institution. In this study, we aimed to develop artificial intelligence-based software for the segmentation of rectal cancer that can be used for staging to optimize treatment strategy and for preoperative surgical simulation.

Method: Images from a total of 201 patients who underwent preoperative MRI were analyzed for training data.

Aortic root geometry following valve-sparing root replacement with reimplantation or remodeling: experimental investigation under static continuous pressure.

The differences in aortic root geometry associated with various valve-sparing root replacement (VSRR) techniques have not fully been understood. We evaluated the root configuration of current VSRR techniques by developing in vitro test apparatus. Six fresh porcine hearts were used for each model.

Underfilled Balloon-Expandable Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation With Ad Hoc Post-Dilation - Pulsatile Flow Simulation Using a Patient-Specific Three-Dimensional Printing Model.

Background: Underfilled transcatheter aortic-valve implantation with ad hoc post-dilation is a therapeutic option for patients with borderline annuli to avoid acute complication. The effects of this technique on valve leaflet behavior, hydrodynamic performances, and paravalvular leakage (PVL) using patient-specific three-dimensional (3D) aortic-valve models were investigated.

Methods and results: A female octogenarian patient was treated with this technique by using a 23-mm Sapien-XT.

Quantitative assessment of paravalvular leakage after transcatheter aortic valve replacement using a patient-specific pulsatile flow model.

Background: Quantitative assessment of post-transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) aortic regurgitation (AR) remains challenging. We developed patient-specific anatomical models with pulsatile flow circuit and investigated factors associated with AR after TAVR.

Methods: Based on pre-procedural computed tomography (CT) data of the six patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR using a 23-mm SAPIEN XT, anatomically and mechanically equivalent aortic valve models were developed.