Simulation of cardiovascular physiology and pathology with CorVascSim : A PC software for advanced education and research

• Background and Goal: The rapid development of computer technology makes simulation of cardiovascular physiology and pathology possible. The current work presents a scientifically based cardiovascular model, with a self-explanatory interface. Material and Methods: An electrical analogue of the cardiovascular system including resistances, capacitances and inductances was constructed. The contractile function of the cardiac atria and ventricles are represented by time-varying elastances. Valvular function, pericardial volume, ventricular interaction and intrathoracic pressure are represented by constants and functions, which can interact. Pressures, flows and volumes are recalculated every millisecond and presented on-line as numerical and high-resolution graphics. Results and Discussion: The validity of the simulation models is based on the references (1-4). The software makes it possible to illustrate a great diversity of circulatory pathological findings including systolic and diastolic heart failure, valve diseases, pericardial effusion, arteriosclerosis and effects of changes in intrathoracic pressure. The model is being used to educate doctors and nurses in cardiac surgery, cardiac anaesthesia, and cardiology, but its pedagogical value remains to be validated. Conclusion: Simulation of cardiac physiology and pathology provides a new way to study the heart. Results from simulations can be used in education as well as in interpretation of clinical invasive monitoring, echocardiography and experimental research.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Anestesi och intensivvård (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care (hsv//eng)

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Kardiologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems (hsv//eng)

Publication and Content Type

vet (subject category)

ovr (subject category)