Computer Simulations of Ventricular Function: Surgical Implications for Repair and Reconstruction

Abstract

Computer simulation technique has been developed to model the complex heterogeneous function of the left ventricle. The left ventricle was modeled as a series of twenty-five consecutive cylindrical shells in an elliptical configuration and then these were specifically and regionally modified. These techniques al lowed assessment of many salient features of clinical situations, such as (1) acute myocardial infarction with secondary loss of apical or anterior wall function, then (2) chronic changes with ventricular aneurysmal formation, and (3) sec ondary residual myocardial compensatory hypertrophy. These pathological de formations were then surgically operated by computer simulation to compare the reconstruction techniques of (1) direct apposition or primary closure versus (2) synthetic patch repair of the resected myocardium for these clinical condi tions. Computer simulation allowed a better understanding of the available data in relationship to surgical decision for ventricular reconstruction to achieve op timal function in each of these specific settings.

The current computer simulation models were used to demonstrate the com plex, dynamic function of the heterogeneous nature of the left ventricle and to allow further evaluations of various potential surgical reparative procedures. These models allow prediction for the best and worst potential outcome of func tion after surgical reconstruction.