MRI image-based FE modelling of the pelvis system and bladder filling

Abstract

In this study, high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging was performed in the transaxial, coronal and sagittal planes to provide comprehensive structural details of the bladder and surrounding systems. Detailed finite-element (FE) models that were specific to each participant were developed by rendering the images, and the process of bladder filling was simulated. The overall model of bladder deformation was compared with repeated images of the filled bladder that were obtained using computed tomography to validate the FE models. The relationship between the changes in the key dimensions of the bladder and the increase in bladder volume during the filling process was also investigated. The numerical results showed that the bladder dimensions increased linearly with its volume during the filling process and the predicted coefficients are comparable to some of the published clinical results.

Keywords:

• bladder filling
• FE modelling
• MRI
• pelvis system

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by an EPRSC CASE Award from the Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology (UK).