A Simple Model for Variant Congenital Cardiac Anomalies

Abstract

Background: Traditionally, echocardiography, computed tomography and angiocardiography are used to detect the anatomy of congenital cardiac defects. Either pediatric cardiologists or cardiac surgeons mentally reconstruct these images into a vague imaginary three-dimensional heart, but such an image usually includes unnecessary surrounding structures which may mask the defects to be detected. Method: We use a perspective view model to draw a more stereoscopic picture of complex hearts instead of the simple two-dimensional sketch. With this model we have the ability to display cardiovascular anatomy in a three-dimensional structure to increase the understanding and appreciation of the complex spatial relationships in the majority of congenital hearts. Results: Through these drawn images the physiology and structural defects of hearts may be understood more easily and explained more clearly in comparison to two-dimensional representations. Conclusion: The simple perspective drawing is not used to replace the three-dimensional examinations, but it is helpful in reconstructing a model of the heart based on the information we obtain through serial examinations, and such a model may be used to teach medical students, as well as to explain defects to patients' families.

Key words

3D‐model - perspective cardiac model - ACM - TGA - IAI/IVI - IIAI

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