Our latest publication in JACC: Case Reports introduces an innovative approach to understanding Anomalous Aortic Origin of the Coronary Artery (AAOCA), a rare congenital condition that can lead to ischemia and sudden cardiac death. Traditionally, comprehensive assessment of AAOCA requires interventional functional testing, which is invasive and carries inherent risks. To improve patient safety and comfort, we have developed an Artificial Physical Twin using a 3D-printed patient-specific phantom. This model simulates hemodynamic conditions under stress using intravascular imaging (IVUS) and fractional flow reserve (FFR).

This non-invasive translational method, derived from coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), allows for external hemodynamic stress testing that closely matches clinical evaluations, providing a potential alternative to traditional invasive tests. This advancement could significantly impact the assessment of AAOCA, particularly under varying hemodynamic conditions, and enhance our ability to safely evaluate these patients. However, this method needs to be applied to larger patient cohorts, refined, and its reliability must first be proven.

The full publication detailing our findings and methodology can be accessed here:

https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jaccas.2024.102729

Koronaranomalien - Kardiologie: Universitätsklinik für Kardiologie