3D Printed Polymers for Trans-Septal Puncture Simulation

This study examines the efficacy of 3D printing polymers to realistically mimic the fossa ovalis – a cardiac structure that is positioned in the interatrial septum - for simulating trans-septal puncture procedures. Specimen of different materials and thicknesses were prepared and tested simulating the puncturing of the Fossa Ovalis using a 12F ID/14F OD TP Catheter. Force and Tenting Length results were compared with literature references. SEM images of the specimen were acquired to observe the perforated region as well as the structure of the specimen in the unaffected area. Significant changes in the properties of interest were registered for the same material on specimens tested in different moments after fabrication. Suturable Vessel Wall Polyjet material offers the best characteristics to replicate Fossa Ovalis anatomy and mimic its behavior to puncturing. The originality of the work lies in the test of different commercial materials. Similar works are already present in literature, but specifically designed materials are used. Demonstrating that off-the-shelf materials could be viable for Fossa Ovalis specimen would simplify the design of realistic Trans-Septal Puncture simulators in the future.