Development of an open-access library of pediatric congenital heart diseases and treatments: A tutorial on the atlas of human cardiac anatomy

Abstract

The major aim of this project is to construct a growing database of information regarding specific manifestations of congenital heart diseases (CHDs), subsequent treatments, clinical cases, and patient outcomes. This will include 3D models generated from clinical imaging of individual patient hearts and respective de-identified clinical case information - all of which will be incorporated onto the free-access Atlas of Human Cardiac Anatomy website (http://www.vhlab.umn.edu/atlas/), where anyone can learn more about these diseases and their complexities [1]. Generated models can also be used for 3D printing, such as for pre-surgical planning, as well as for incorporation into virtual reality in order to expand outreach and education efforts [2]. Future work will incorporate computational modeling to enhance insights relative to treatment strategies and surgical planning. By studying a broad range of these unique individual cases, it will be possible for patients, clinicians, and medical device designers alike to better understand the clinical presentations of congenital heart diseases and develop more effective treatment strategies.