Creating 3D models to improve heart surgery for children with severe congenital heart disease

Simulating Cardiac Surgery for Children with Severe Congenital Heart Disease

NIH-funded research West Virginia University · NIH-11180747

This study is all about helping kids with serious heart problems by using special 3D models of their hearts, so doctors can plan the best surgery for each child and make sure they have the best chance of a successful recovery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWest Virginia University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Morgantown, United States)
Project IDNIH-11180747 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving surgical outcomes for children with severe congenital heart disease, particularly those with single ventricle heart disease. By developing a method to create detailed 3D models of the heart using advanced imaging techniques, the research aims to better understand the complex anatomy and blood flow in these patients. The 3D models will allow surgeons to simulate various surgical options and select the most effective approach tailored to each child's unique condition. This innovative approach seeks to enhance decision-making and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with single ventricle heart disease who require surgical intervention.

Not a fit: Patients with congenital heart disease who do not have single ventricle heart disease or those who are not candidates for surgical procedures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective surgical interventions and improved survival rates for children with severe congenital heart disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results using 3D modeling techniques in surgical planning, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Morgantown, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.