Generation of an anatomically based geometric coronary model

A discrete anatomically accurate finite element model of the largest six generations of the coronary arterial network is developed. Using a previously developed anatomically accurate model of ventricular geometry the boundaries of the coronary mesh are defined from measured epicardial coronaries. Network topology is then generated stochastically from published anatomical data. Spatial information is added to this topological data using an avoidance algorithm accounting for global network geometry and optimal local branch angle properties. The generated vessel lengths, radii and connectivity are consistent with the published studies and a relativity even spatial distribution of vessels within the ventricular mesh is achieved. The local finite element coordinates of the coronary nodes within the ventricular mesh are calculated such that the coronary geometry can be recalculated within a deformed ventricular mesh. (C) 2000 Biomedical Engineering Society. [S0090-6964(99)01306-5].