Virtual evaluation of stent graft deployment: A validated modeling and simulation study

The presented study details the virtual deployment of a bifurcated stent graft (Medtronic Talent) in an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm model, using the finite element method. The entire deployment procedure is modeled, with the stent graft being crimped and bent according to the vessel geometry, and subsequently released. The finite element results are validated in vitro with placement of the device in a silicone mock aneurysm, using high resolution CT scans to evaluate the result. The presented work confirms the capability of finite element computer simulations to predict the deformed configuration after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). These simulations can be used to quantify mechanical parameters, such as neck dilations, radial forces and stresses in the device, that are difficult or impossible to obtain from medical imaging.

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► The virtual deployment of an abdominal aortic stent graft is presented.
► Mechanical testing is performed on the metallic wires of an actual sample.
► Numerical results are validated in vitro with a silicone mock aneurysm.
► Experimental and simulated deployment show good agreement.