Non-axisymmetrical (life-like) abdominal aortic aneurysm models: a do-it-yourself approach.

Purpose: To construct life-like non-axisymmetrical abdominal aortic aneurysm models from latex.
Technique: A computed tomographic 3-dimensional reconstruction of an actual abdominal aortic aneurysm was cast in plastic to provide a core for a "chemical metal" mould. The mould was then coated with nonadhesive prevulcanized dipping latex and cured to provide an idealized hollow reconstruction of the aneurysm.
Conclusions: Chemical metal can be manipulated quite easily to make a mould of any required size or surface character, which then allows the manufacture of a well-matched latex model for biophysical studies of non-axisymmetrical abdominal aortic aneurysms.