3D-implant early diagnosis of heart disease

In this article you will be introduced to the achievement of an international team of biomedical engineers have developed the bulk of the heart implant. Established scientists 3D-membrane can save many millions of lives having diagnosed the approach of serious heart problems prior to their occurrence.

The use of conventional low cost of 3D-printers gradually goes far beyond the limits of home pampering. While ordinary citizens of the planet Earth print for yourself all sorts of useful things, doctors use 3D-press in their professional activities. In this article you will be introduced to the achievement of an international team of biomedical engineers have developed the bulk of the heart implant. With further development, the scientists created a membrane able to save many millions of lives having diagnosed the approach of serious heart problems prior to their occurrence.

An international team of scientists headed by Professor Igor Efimov. Our former compatriot began his career at the Institute of Biophysics, Pushchino, Russia. Then he spent most of the scientific work in a number of American universities.

igor Efimov

Professor, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Washington. Explores bioelectric mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias and conduction. Working on the development of new treatments antiaritmii, including low-energy painless therapy of atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia.

The result was the creation of works of researchers of 3D-elastic membrane. The implant is made from a soft, flexible silicon material exactly follows the shape of the heart epicardium (outer layer of the heart wall) of the patient.

The flexibility of the innovative membrane solves the problems of the current two-dimensional technologies, which are not able to cover the entire surface of the epicardium or securely held on the heart without seams or glue.

Modern one-dimensional device to its parameters are not suitable for all patients. The developed technology allows for the individual body shape and size. With the help of computer tomography generated three-dimensional model of the heart, on the basis of which the membrane is printed. We create an approach that gives high accuracy of diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases.

Igor Efimov.

Placed on the membrane of tiny sensors can accurately measure the temperature of the mechanics of the heart, blood flow parameters, as well as send electrical impulses in cases of arrhythmia. Sensor readings can accurately predict an impending heart attack before the appearance of physical symptoms.

For example, the membrane may be used to treat diseases of the lower ventricular heart chambers or treatment of various disorders, including atrial fibrillation. In the case of cardiac rhythm disorders, the implant will direct electric pulse for stimulating the heart muscle, and normalizing patient's heartbeat.

3D-membrane can keep for themselves a sensor for measuring the level of troponin - a protein that is a sign of a heart attack. Analysis of the level of troponin is a standard treatment for patients with suspected myocardial infarction. Monitoring the amount of troponin in the blood in real time will prevent human cardiac disorders.

Now scientists are testing a membrane on the rabbit heart. Good luck to the researchers. Their work can become a major weapon in the fight against one of the most common causes of human death.