An MRI-compatible mock model for intra-cardiac flow imaging

Cardiac mock models are helpful to develop new imaging methodologies. Although several mock model setups have been proposed, a good model for the development of intra-cardiac flow imaging is missing. The challenge lies in the fact that mimicking realistic flow patterns requires a realistic left ventricular shape as well as valve systems and a fluid with appropriate rheological properties. Moreover, in order to enable an independent reference method, the model either has to be optically transparent (i.e. for OPIV) or has to be MRI-compatible (i.e. phase-contrast MRI). The goal of this study was therefore to develop such a cardiac mock model.