An integrated coronary circulation teaching model.
OBJECTIVE
We present in this paper a model of the coronary circulation. This model is integrated with a model of the systemic circulation, and contains models for oxygen supply and demand.


METHODS
Three compartments are created: one for the right ventricle, one for the epicardial segment of the left ventricle and one for the endo-cardial segment of the left ventricle. The model was implemented in the Java programming language and contains a visual representation of the left and right ventricles which beat in real time. Color shading is used to represent the partial pressure of oxygen in the segments. A multitude of model parameters can be changed to simulate different scenarios.


RESULTS
The output of the model was characterized under different conditions and the results verified by clinicians.


CONCLUSIONS
Educational models of human physiology can be very useful for a more in depth understanding of complete physiologic systems. The models must however have enough complexity, interaction with other systems, and realism to show the concepts being taught.
van Oostrom
Johannes H
JH
Department of Anesthesiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida 32610, USA. hans@anest.ufl.edu
Kentgens
S
S
Beneken
J E W
JE
Gravenstein
J S
JS
D001783:Blood Flow Velocity; D001794:Blood Pressure; D002309:Cardiology / Q000193:education*; D003196:Computer Graphics; D003198:Computer Simulation; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods*; D003324:Coronary Artery Disease / Q000503:physiopathology*; D003326:Coronary Circulation; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008955:Models, Cardiovascular; D017202:Myocardial Ischemia / Q000503:physiopathology*; D018511:Systems Integration; D014584:User-Computer Interface