Anatomical variations of the coronary arteries and its correlation with digital anatomy

Abstract

Introduction: The study, teaching and investigation of anatomy is entering in a new paradigm which includes technologies that allow the analysis of the human body from a whole different perspective. The aim of those who are working on this field is to merge classic anatomy with these new tools. In this paper, we will applicate their use to the study of the anatomical variations of the coronary arteries.

The anatomy of the coronary arteries [1–16] has been widely studied [17–20] due to their clinical relevance. The use of three-dimensional views of specific cases, as well as the 3D modelling are useful to understand the normal anatomy and its variations. Presented at the 3rd World Congress of the UNESCO Chair for Teaching and Research in Digital Anatomy Paris Descartes at Egas Moniz University Institute - Almada, Portugal.

Materials and methods: our team used 106 hearts, obtained by autopsy, that were protocolled with labels containing identification and demographics of each case. This pieces were preserved in formaldehyde 10% and dissected to individualize the main coronary arteries and their branches.

The creation of the 3D models followed a sequence of steps:

 • Generating a raw model form cardiotomography and/or chest angiotomography. This models can also come from the slices of the Korean Visible Human (KVH) [21–24].

• Edition of the models utilizing different software’s. A series of models can be united to create modules.

• Finally, they can be launched from platforms or 3D printed.

Results: the study revealed a huge disparity in the origin and distribution of the coronary arteries. The most frequent was on the birth of the branches from the left coronary artery [25] presenting multiple divisions, these were verified by imaging methods and angiography.

Knowing the normal coronary anatomy allows the creation and correction of the three-dimensional models, which makes them more reliable. Therefore, the models can be used for different porpoises such as teaching, investigation and they may have surgical uses.

Discussion and conclusions: although these new tools are startling which leads to a huge impact in users, they must not replace cadaveric anatomy. There should be a balance between both that allows the user to take out the best of each of them.

Dissecting, either virtually or classical, requires trained personal and their time. Having access to a huge data base, allows to create a potentially limitless number of models. Nevertheless, the personal should not only know anatomy but should also have informatics knowledge. Classical dissection is limited by the number of bodies and the means to preserve them.

Employing this new tools for the study of the variation of the coronary arteries and its miocardical distribution is relevant not only for the resolution of pathological situations but also for educational porpouses [26–29].

Extrapolating these three-dimensional techniques to the whole body may seem ambitious, but the result should be impressive. The collaboration on the frame of the UNESCO chair of Digital Anatomy will allow its members to reach this goal.