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    Design for X-ray: design strategies for radiographically unobtrusive FFF functional components
    (2026-10) ; ;
    Wagner, Maximilian
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    ;
    Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) components are frequently used in physical medical training models to position, support, or integrate anatomical structures. In X-ray-based training environments, these parts must fulfill their mechanical functions while minimizing unwanted visibility in fluoroscopy. This contribution investigates how infill structure, external geometry, and projection direction influence the radiographic appearance of FFF components. Experimental X-ray imaging of test specimens is combined with G-Code-based virtual X-ray simulation to derive initial design principles. The approach is applied to a representative vascular support in the neurointerventional simulator HANNES, demonstrating how radiological unobtrusiveness can be addressed as an explicit design objective.
    Publicationtype: Conference Paper
      6
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    Item type:Publication, Access status: with files ,
    Reducing catheter advancement forces in PolyJet printed small vascular models for neurointerventional training through surface coatings
    (Frontiers Media S.A., 2026-08-28) ; ; ; ;
    Wagner, Maximilian
    Introduction The fabrication of realistic additively manufactured small vascular models for neurointerventional training remains challenging, as current manufacturing technologies often require a compromise between geometric accuracy and realistic catheter handling. Although several additive manufacturing technologies have been investigated, many fail to reliably reproduce patent lumina in vessels smaller than 2 mm. PolyJet printing enables the fabrication of highly accurate vascular geometries with open lumina; however, it produces comparatively rough inner surfaces, resulting in increased friction and unrealistic catheter handling, thereby limiting the tribological realism of the models. Methods This study investigated whether surface coatings can improve the tribological performance of PolyJet vascular models while preserving their geometric accuracy. In this exploratory study, eight coating systems were evaluated using surface roughness measurements, cyclic catheter force measurements, short-term stability testing, micro-computed tomography, and clinical validation by experienced interventional neuroradiologists. Results Several coatings reduced surface roughness and catheter advancement forces compared with uncoated models. However, reduced roughness alone did not fully explain handling performance. Micro-computed tomography revealed substantial differences in coating homogeneity and lumen preservation, whereas force-path analyses demonstrated that homogeneous coatings produced smoother and more uniform force profiles. These objective findings were largely confirmed by the physicians’ subjective assessments. Among the investigated systems, Teflon spray provided the best overall balance between friction reduction, coating homogeneity, ease of application, and clinical acceptance, whereas Aquasure achieved the lowest catheter advancement forces but required a substantially more complex coating procedure. Discussion The results demonstrate that targeted surface modification can overcome one of the major limitations of PolyJet printed small vascular models by improving tribological realism while preserving their geometric accuracy.
    Publicationtype: Journal Article
      9  54
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    Item type:Publication, Access status: with files ,
    Development of a dynamically adjustable video-laryngoscope for endotracheal intubation (DAVE)
    (Infinite Science Publishing, 2026-06-14) ; ; ;
    Endotracheal intubation is a routine yet safety-critical procedure in anaesthesiology and emergency medicine. Although videolaryngoscopes have substantially improved airway management, established systems are still based on fixed blade geometries that do not allow patient-specific adjustment during use. This work describes the development and prototypical implementation of a dynamically adjustable videolaryngoscope for endotracheal intubation (DAVE). The device was developed through an interdisciplinary product development process based on VDI 2221, integrating engineering and clinical expertise. Based on clinical and technical requirements, a concept featuring an articulated blade with two mechanically coupled movable segments, a cable-driven actuation mechanism, and an integrated camera system was developed and iteratively refined over fourteen prototype versions. The final prototype was manufactured using multimaterial additive manufacturing based on polylactide and thermoplastic polyurethane and enables controlled adjustment of the articulated blade geometry while preserving sufficient rigidity for tissue retraction and lifting. Within the iterative development process, qualitative tests were used to assess distal blade angulation, camera-view angle, and passive camera alignment through movement of the middle segment. The resulting observations were used for prototype refinement and to evaluate their potential influence on glottis exposure and laryngoscopic view. These observations indicate that the developed concept is fundamentally suitable for dynamically adapting blade curvature and camera orientation to the individual requirements of the patient and user. The effect of these adjustments on glottic visualisation and clinical performance was not systematically quantified in the present work. The present work demonstrates the fundamental technical feasibility of a dynamically adjustable videolaryngoscope.
    Publicationtype: Journal Article
      10  4
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    HANNES V3.0 – enhancing fluoroscopic realism in a physical endovascular training model
    (American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), 2026-04) ; ;
    Wagner, Maximilian
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    ;
    Realistic fluoroscopic appearance of body parts and equipment is crucial for physical simulators that aim to train endovascular skills. We present HANNES V3.0, a re-engineered, modular neurointerventional training model designed to enhance X-ray realism while preserving the use of standard clinical instruments. Following a structured design process, the system was partitioned into humanoid, hydraulic, and electrical modules. Within the humanoid module, we minimized visibility of non-anatomical parts by immersing components in a water-based medium to approximate radiodensity, while intentionally emphasizing anatomical landmarks by applying a radiopaque coating to skeletal structures (skull and a simplified thorax). Vessel models manufactured via SLA and supporting elements via FDM were integrated in a rectangular tank; design measures (e.g., open top layers over gyroid infill) avoided trapped air that would artifactually increase contrast. In experiments on a clinical angiography system (Philips Allura Clarity FD20), native fluoroscopy showed deliberately low vessel conspicuity, with clear lumen depiction under iodinated contrast; thoracic bony landmarks remained consistently visible and non-anatomical elements were largely suppressed. In a post-use survey (n=13), participants rated training value at 4.6/5 and X-ray realism at 4.7/5 (Likert scale). These findings support HANNES V3.0 as a realistic, reusable platform for neurointerventional training.
    Publicationtype: Conference Paper
      11
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    Development and testing of 3D-printed distal stroke models for mechanical thrombectomy training
    (American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), 2026-04) ; ; ; ;
    Wagner, Maximilian
    Continuous advances in neurointerventional medicine, coupled with the development of increasingly smaller thrombectomy systems, have now rendered endovascular procedures feasible even in very small cerebral vessels (<2 mm). However, these procedures are technically demanding and require intensive practical training. To support this distal stroke training models have been developed for integration into the existing neurointerventional simulator HANNES. This study aimed to realistically simulate mechanical thrombectomy in distal vessel segments (M2–M4, A2–A4). A range of material combinations and geometric configurations were analyzed in order to evaluate the geometric, physiological and medical-therapeutic mapping. The application tests carried out by neurointerventional specialists demonstrated that, due to their good anatomical representation, all models are fundamentally suitable for training purposes. However, further improvements are required in terms of friction. The Clear–AR-G1H material combination received the highest ratings in terms of haptics, elasticity, navigability, and X-ray imaging, while the Clear–Clear pairing achieved only moderate results. The distal stroke models that have been developed can be used to expand the HANNES simulator with a modular, anatomically realistic training module, which can make an important contribution to the further development of training in neurointerventional stroke therapy.
    Publicationtype: Conference Paper
      43
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    Development and validation of a novel stenosis model for percutaneous transluminal angioplasty training of the internal carotid artery
    Introduction/Background: The rising demand for endovascular stroke therapy highlights the need for standardized training environments. Studies have shown the positive impact of simulator-based training for neurointerventional procedures. Given the frequent use of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of the internal carotid artery (ICA) in acute settings, specialized simulation training is crucial. This study evaluates the feasibility of a custom-made ICA stenosis model for PTA simulation. Methods: Internally developed 3D-printed circular clamps were attached to patient-based 3D printed ICA models and integrated into a previously described realistic whole-body neurovascular simulation model HANNES (Hamburg Anatomic Neurointerventional Endovascular Simulator) to simulate a proximal ICA stenosis. Participants (N = 5) of varying experience levels each performed three PTA procedures. Fluoroscopy time, radiation doses, and the extent of stenosis and balloon inflation pressure were assessed. After simulation, participants rated the model in terms of haptic, feasibility and applicability. Results: For statistical analysis, the participants were divided into two groups according to their experience level. There was a statistically significant difference in the procedure duration between both groups, U = 10.500, Z = −1.968, p < 0.05. Significant test results could also be demonstrated for radiation doses (DAP) among groups, Kolmogorov-Smirnov p < 0.05, U = 7.000, Z = −2.357, p < 0.05. No difference was shown between the total contrast volume (ml) among groups that was used during procedures (m = 11.67, SD 2.09). Conclusion: The authors propose a novel ICA stenosis simulation model for training of the cervical PTA. The model provides a realistic and replicable method for standardized procedural training.
    Publicationtype: Journal Article
      33  14
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    Aktuelle Entwicklungen und Anwendungen von medizinischen Modellen und Phantomen
    Dieses Kapitel fokussiert sich auf die Entwicklung von medizinischen Modellen, welche durch das interdisziplinäre Forschungsfeld eine besondere Herausforderung darstellt. Zentrum der Forschung stellen unter anderem Trainingsmodelle für die tierversuchsfreie Ausbildung von medizinischem Personal sowie Phantome für die medizinische Bildgebung dar.
    Publicationtype: Book Part
      43
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    Entwicklungen und Perspektiven in Forschung und Lehre
    In diesem Kapitel werden ausgewählte Aktivitäten des PKT aus den Jahren 2021 bis 2025 vorgestellt. Neben einem Rückblick auf die rege Zusammenarbeit mit zahlreichen Forschungs- und Industriepartnern und den wissenschaftlichen Diskurs unter anderem in Fachgesellschaften und auf Fachtagungen, werden Einblicke in die Lehre gegeben. Weiter werden die Promotionen der vergangen Jahre vorgestellt.
    Publicationtype: Book Part
      34
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    3D printed embolization module for treatment training of chronic subdural hematomas in interventional neuroradiology
    (Infinite Science Publishing, 2025-06-02) ; ; ; ;
    Jungnitz, Maximilian
    Minimally invasive techniques have revolutionized the treatment of cerebrovascular disease, including middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) as a promising alternative to open surgical treatment of chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH). However, training in MMAE still requires the use of animal models, which have ethical concerns and are not anatomically realistic. This study presents the development of a 3D printed, interchangeable MMA embolization module for integration into the HANNES neurointerventional simulator with the previously developed MMA model to enable realistic simulation of cSDH treatment with the liquid embolic agent Onyx. The module was designed in a patient-like geometry and manufactured using stereolithography (SLA) printing with two different materials. A detailed evaluation of the manufacturing parameters showed that the choice of material and print orientation had a significant impact on post-processing efficiency. The final module was tested in a realistic angiography suite with original treatment instruments and its performance was evaluated by experienced neuroradiologists. The module received high marks for anatomical realism, flow characteristics and embolic agent distribution. The results highlight the potential of the module as an effective tool for neurointerventional training, reducing the need for animal models while providing a standardized, reproducible training platform. Future work could focus on integrating the module into structured training courses, exploring its application for radiation-free learning due to its transparency, and incorporating objective evaluation metrics to assess procedural performance and skill acquisition.
    Publicationtype: Journal Article
      42  10
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    Design and experimental validation of a novel additively manufactured stenosis model for neurointerventional training
    (Infinite Science Publishing, 2025-06-02) ; ; ; ;
    Stenoses, or pathological narrowings of blood vessels, are significant risk factors for cardiovascular events. While various stenosis models exist for training purposes, they often present limitations for intracranial applications due to their size and inability to maintain vessel dilation after treatment. This paper presents the development and evaluation of a novel stenosis model specifically designed for compact, intracranial applications within the neurointerventional simulator HANNES. The model utilizes a C-shaped clip mechanism that selectively constricts an elastic vessel, incorporating a designed breaking point that ensures permanent vessel dilation upon reaching a critical pressure during balloon angioplasty. The model was manufactured using stereolithographic additive manufacturing and underwent experimental evaluation using a standard PTA balloon catheter. Results demonstrated reproducible burst pressures of 12 ± 1 bar, aligning with typical clinical parameters. X-ray imaging confirmed successful integration into the HANNES simulator, enabling realistic simulation of stenosis treatment procedures. Experiments showed that the developed stenosis model should be used with elastic silicone tubes connected to additively manufactured vessel models, as direct application to printed vessels either resulted in vessel wall damage during compression or insufficient constriction depending on the C-clip geometry. Based on these findings and the successful validation results, the model represents a reliable and reproducible platform for neurointerventional training, with its parametric design allowing adaptation to various clinical scenarios.
    Publicationtype: Journal Article
      12  13