Description
This unique 3D-printed model of a heart with a cauliflower type left atrial appendage (LAA) showcases the intricate detail of the human heart in a highly accurate and reproducible fashion. DASH segmented this model from CT imagery and colored each part to represent the various components of the heart.
This model is an ideal tool for medical students, physicians, and researchers who need a detailed and accurate representation of the human heart. Clinicians can use it to better visualize the defect and understand the underlying pathology. Since the model allows you to see the defect in detail, it can be used to demonstrate and explain the defect to patients, which can be helpful in patient education and decision-making.
It is durable, and able to be handled and observed many times without damaging the model. DASH has a large library of models with a left atrial appendage defect, available here.
WHAT IS A LEFT ATRIAL APPENDAGE?
Left atrial appendages (LAA) are small sacs in the muscle wall of the left atrium. The pouch-like structure of LAAs allows blood to pool and form clots. With each heartbeat, blood clots can travel from the LAA into peripheral vasculature and cause a stroke. Healthcare providers may recommend a LAA closure procedure to patients at risk of developing blood clots.
