Our research focuses on combining magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the body (in vivo) with 3D printed physical models (in vitro) based on actual patient specific scans. Separate physical models allow control of fluid properties not possible in vivo, as well as simulation of surgical interventions. The 3D models and in vitro 4D flow measurements allow validation of simulated using numeric models (in silico). The combination of these three techniques furthers development of patient specific methods for improving diagnostic and surgical outcomes.
While the main research areas involve cardiovascular flows, research efforts are branching off to cover a broader range of topics including:
- Urinary flow dynamics
- Respiratory airflow
- Fluid dynamic applications to ovarian and prostate cancer
- MRI & MRE phantom development
- Machine learning
Research Projects
Machine Learning - Cleaner MRI
Augmentation of 4D flow MRI data with CFD-informed neural networks may provide a method to produce highly accurate physiological flow fields and overcome limitations in both quantitative and qualitative analysis errors inherent to PC MRI.
Hemodynamics in Atrial Fibrillation (AF) and Pulmonary Hypertension
AF is the most common type of cardiac arrythmia worldwide. 4D flow MRI, CFD, and physical model experiments with a physiological pulse duplicator can be used to better understand AF hemodynamics and improve MR diagnostics for detection and treatment.
Quantifying the Impact of Pulmonary Artery Stenosis (PAS) Interventions on Ventricular Flow Dynamics
A common post-operative complication of congenital heart disease (CHD) surgical interventions is branch pulmonary artery stenosis (PAS). Using 4D flow MRI and CFD, we aim to predict effectiveness of PAS interventions and impact on ventricular flow.
4D Flow MRI: Patient Specific Intracranial Aneurysms
Using 4D Flow MRI, we study the flow dynamics through patient-specific intracranial aneurysms. Modeled from patient CT Angiography, we 3D print, scan, and visualize the flow patterns inside of the aneurysm and patient artery.
MRI Based Patient-Specific Urinary Flow Dynamic Simulations
By obtaining an estimate of bladder wall motion captured using 4D flow MRI, we aim to predict how urinary tract flow dynamics during voiding are affected by benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) using CFD.
Ex Vivo 4D Flow MRI
Coupling a pulse duplicator capable of reproducing physiological flow conditions and 4D flow MRI we can improve MR diagnostics for pathological conditions and treatments and understand how they alter cardiac hemodynamics.
