Personalized Aorta Simulation Revolutionizes Heart Surgery Planning

A groundbreaking tool developed by scientists at Queen Mary University of London and Barts Health NHS Trust is transforming heart surgery planning. This innovative digital model, known as TAVR-AID, creates a personalized digital twin of each patient’s aorta, allowing doctors to test surgical approaches before operating.

How TAVR-AID Works

TAVR-AID utilizes advanced technology to simulate blood flow within the aorta after a valve replacement. By combining CT scans of the patient’s aorta with echocardiography data to assess the severity of stenosis, the AI-powered model generates a highly accurate digital representation of the patient’s unique cardiovascular structure.

This personalized simulation helps clinicians make informed decisions about several crucial aspects of the surgery:

• Valve Selection: TAVR-AID assists in determining the optimal valve size and type for each patient.
• Valve Positioning: The simulation helps surgeons plan the precise positioning of the valve to ensure optimal blood flow.
• Risk Assessment: The model predicts the potential for complications such as stroke, leaks, or device failure.

Benefits of TAVR-AID

“TAVR-AID is not designed to replace human decision-making but to enhance it,” explains Professor Anthony Mathur, lead inventor of the technology and a Consultant Cardiologist at Barts Health.

He adds, “The AI model leverages the digital twin and patient data to provide clinicians with invaluable insights, leading to improved surgical planning and potentially minimizing complications.” This personalized approach allows for a more precise and tailored surgical strategy, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

A Collaborative Effort

Professor Mathur emphasizes the vital role of multidisciplinary collaboration in developing this innovative technology. “This is an exceptional example of how combining clinical expertise with computational modeling, artificial intelligence, and patient perspectives can effectively address complex healthcare challenges,” he says.

The research team, consisting of cardiologists, surgeons, engineers, computer scientists, and patient representatives, worked together to create a sophisticated and practical solution grounded in real-world clinical needs.

Bringing TAVR-AID to Market

Queen Mary Innovation, the university’s tech transfer office, is actively seeking a commercial partner to help bring this groundbreaking technology to clinicians worldwide. TAVR-AID holds immense potential to revolutionize heart valve surgery and improve the lives of countless patients.

Interested in learning more about TAVR-AID and its potential impact on heart surgery? Contact Queen Mary Innovation today.