Development of a Non-rigid Model Representing the Venous System of a Specific Patient

Regarding the cardiovascular system, in-vitro studies appears as an alternative for experimental assessment of blood flow parameters, in order to validating numerical simulation through particle imaging velocimetry (PIV) or laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV), and assist health professionals in clinical procedure. The aim of this study is to develop a methodology for manufacturing optical silicone models of blood vessels, life size, for the purposes described. A process similar to casting was used. A bipartite mold and a core were manufactured through of the 3D print after the geometry be acquired by computed tomography. The optical silicone was used to manufacture the model. After the cure of the silicone, it was observed that the model showed great transparency and compliance. This procedure showed up a simple and fast way for the manufacturing of optical silicone specimen of blood vessels. The results obtained were ideal for the purpose of the study, however the final model still lacks mechanical characterization for specific applications.