Computer-generated three-dimensional animation of the mitral valve.
OBJECTIVE
Three-dimensional motion-capture data offer insight into the mechanical differences of mitral valve function in pathologic states. Although this technique is precise, the resulting time-varying data sets can be both difficult to interpret and visualize. We used a new technique to transform these 3-dimensional ovine numeric analyses into an animated human model of the mitral apparatus that can be deformed into various pathologic states.


METHODS
In vivo, high-speed, biplane cinefluoroscopic images of tagged ovine mitral apparatus were previously analyzed under normal and pathologic conditions. These studies produced serial 3-dimensional coordinates. By using commercial animation and custom software, animated 3-dimensional models were constructed of the mitral annulus, leaflets, and subvalvular apparatus. The motion data were overlaid onto a detailed model of the human heart, resulting in a dynamic reconstruction.


RESULTS
Numeric motion-capture data were successfully converted into animated 3-dimensional models of the mitral valve. Structures of interest can be isolated by eliminating adjacent anatomy. The normal and pathophysiologic dynamics of the mitral valve complex can be viewed from any perspective.


CONCLUSIONS
This technique provides easy and understandable visualization of the complex and time-varying motion of the mitral apparatus. This technology creates a valuable research and teaching tool for the conceptualization of mitral valve dysfunction and the principles of repair.
Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, New York University School of Medicine, NYU Medical Center, 530 First Avenue, New York, NY 10028, USA.
Joseph H
JH
Dayan
Aaron
A
Oliker
Ram
R
Sharony
F Gregory
FG
Baumann
Aubrey
A
Galloway
Stephen B
SB
Colvin
D Craig
DC
Miller
Eugene A
EA
Grossi
D000818:Animals; D002933:Cineradiography; D003196:Computer Graphics; D005471:Fluoroscopy; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008943:Mitral Valve / Q000502:physiology*; D012756:Sheep