Recent studies conducted at the University of Manchester, have led to the development of a virtual heart that can be used to foster a greater understanding of heart-health and how it impacts upon health and wellbeing. The researchers at the University’s School of Physics and Astronomy have used up-to-date digital technology to create a computerised representation of an anatomically, correct sheep’s heart. This has been achieved by taking very thin slices of a heart and imaging them digitally, in order to create a 3D model.
This computer generated model includes details of the heart’s highly-complex fibre structures, the segmentation of the heart’s upper chambers and its different atrial regions. The scientists believe the model can be used to shed more light on the common heart-ailment – atrial fibrillation or AF.
According to those behind the research, AF affects approximately 1.5% of the world’s population, including around 500,000 in the UK. Patients diagnosed with it suffer from an irregular heartbeat which affects the way in which the heart pumps blood around the body – sometimes leading to stroke. This occurs when erratic electrical impulses shoot into the upper chambers of the heart, disrupting the heart’s ability to naturally regulate its patterns. However, despite being a relatively-common ailment, little is known about what factors trigger its onset.
During this research the scientists also discovered that the fibre structure of the heart fulfils an essential role in the development of AF. This happens as the result of structural variations within the fibres and the manner in which it directs electrical impulses towards the pulmonary vein area. The sudden variation at the junction between the left atrium and pulmonary vein appeared to contribute to the onset of AF.
The research team are extremely enthusiastic regarding the possibilities that the development of the virtual heart represent, and it can certainly help to foster a greater understanding of AF.
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