title: An image-based modeling framework for patient-specific computational hemodynamics.
abstract: We present a modeling framework designed for patient-specific computational hemodynamics to be performed in the context of large-scale studies. The framework takes advantage of the integration of image processing, geometric analysis and mesh generation techniques, with an accent on full automation and high-level interaction. Image segmentation is performed using implicit deformable models taking advantage of a novel approach for selective initialization of vascular branches, as well as of a strategy for the segmentation of small vessels. A robust definition of centerlines provides objective geometric criteria for the automation of surface editing and mesh generation. The framework is available as part of an open-source effort, the Vascular Modeling Toolkit, a first step towards the sharing of tools and data which will be necessary for computational hemodynamics to play a role in evidence-based medicine.
authors.affiliation: Biomedical Engineering Department, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Villa Camozzi, Ranica, BG, Italy. antiga@marionegri.it
authors.forename: Luca
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Antiga
authors.forename: Marina
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Piccinelli
authors.forename: Lorenzo
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Botti
authors.forename: Bogdan
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Ene-Iordache
authors.forename: Andrea
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Remuzzi
authors.forename: David A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Steinman
mesh_terms: D001012:Aorta, Abdominal / Q000502:physiology; D003198:Computer Simulation; D018056:Hemorheology; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D002532:Intracranial Aneurysm / Q000503:physiopathology; D008955:Models, Cardiovascular; D019047:Phantoms, Imaging; D012984:Software