Generation of an anatomically based geometric coronary model

A discrete anatomically accurate finite element model of the largest six ge nerations of the coronary arterial network is developed. Using a previously developed anatomically accurate model of ventricular geometry the boundari es of the coronary mesh are defined from measured epicardial coronaries. Ne twork topology is then generated stochastically from published anatomical d ata. Spatial information is added to this topological data using an avoidan ce algorithm accounting for global network geometry and optimal local branc h angle properties. The generated vessel lengths, radii and connectivity ar e consistent with the published studies and a relativity even spatial distr ibution of vessels within the ventricular mesh is achieved. The local finit e element coordinates of the coronary nodes within the ventricular mesh are calculated such that the coronary geometry can be recalculated within a de formed ventricular mesh. (C) 2000 Biomedical Engineering Society. [S0090-69 64(99)01306-5].