Generic design of an anatomical heart model optimized for additive manufacturing with silicone

Purpose The purpose of this study is the generation of a thorough generic heart model optimized for direct 3D printing with silicone elastomers. Design/methodology/approach The base of the model design is segmentation of CT data, followed by a generic adaption and a constructive enhancement. The model is 3D printed with silicone. An evaluation of the physical model gives indications about its benefits and weaknesses. Findings The results show the feasibility of a generic design while maintaining anatomical correctness and the benefit of the generic approach to quickly derive a multiplicity of healthy and pathological versions from one single model. The material properties of the silicone model are sufficient for simulation, but the results of the evaluation indicate possible improvements, as for most anatomical features, the used silicone is too hard and too stretchable. Originality/value Previous developments mostly focus on patient-specific heart models. In contrast, this study sets out to explore the possibility and benefits of a generic approach. Standardized validated models would allow comparability in surgical simulation.