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The recent widespread application of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in interventional cardiology has improved patient-specific modeling of stented coronary arteries for the investigation of local hemodynamics. In this review, the workflow for the creation of fluid dynamics models of stented coronary arteries from OCT images is presented. The algorithms for lumen contours and stent strut detection from OCT as well as the reconstruction methods of stented geometries are discussed. Furthermore, the state of the art of studies that investigate the hemodynamics of OCT-based stented coronary artery geometries is reported. Although those studies analyzed few patient-specific cases, the application of the current reconstruction methods of stented geometries to large populations is possible. However, the improvement of these methods and the reduction of the time needed for the entire modeling process are crucial for a widespread clinical use of the OCT-based models and future in silico clinical trials.

Background: Since first reported in 1992, laparoscopic adrenalectomy has been used to remove a wide variety of adrenal neoplasms. Indications for use of this technique have not been clearly defined, nor has it been demonstrated to be more cost effective than open adrenalectomy., Methods: A retrospective comparison was made of 19 consecutive laparoscopic and open adrenalectomies performed in patients with benign adrenal neoplasms in a tertiary-care university teaching hospital over a 3-year period., Results: The two groups were well matched for side of tumor and age. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy was completed in 11 of 12 patients in whom it was attempted. The laparoscopic group had significantly smaller tumor size; shorter operative time, postoperative ileus, and postoperative stay; and decreased operative blood loss and postoperative narcotic requirement. There were no significant differences between groups for operating room or hospital charges., Conclusions: Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is cost effective and should be the preferred treatment for patients with small benign adrenal neoplasms.