Geometric Capabilities
BDC Laboratories can manufacture nearly any silicone mock artery configuration from straight tubes to patient based anatomy. We leverage multiple manufacturing methods to provide the best final result based on the specific mock vessel configuration. Our cost and lead-times are reasonable on any configuration. BDC Labs capabilities include, but are not limited to:
- Diameters from 1.5 mm to exceeding 50 mm
- Nearly any Length
- Straights, Bifurcations, & Trifurcations
- Aortic Arches with Branch Vessels
- Patient Based Anatomy from DICOM Files
- Custom Geometry
When an order is placed with BDC Labs, the mock artery is built to your specifications. Diameters, diametric compliance and other key parameters are all certified at the appropriate conditions.
Product Certification
All mock arteries built by BDC Labs are certified prior to shipment and a certificate of compliance accompanies each vessel. We utilize validated equipment and test methods to achieve the most accurate measure of compliance and diameters for each finished product. Our compliance test system was initially developed by Dr. Steven Weinberg in the early 1990’s. Since then, the system has continuously evolved to meet the increasing complexity of mock artery designs and customer requirements.
Based on the clients needs, the diametric (radial) compliance can be measured on the main body as well as any branch segment(s). In addition, qualification can be performed at physiologic 1.2 Hz or any other test frequency up to 80 Hz and at any pulse pressure (e.g. 160 mm Hg / 80 mm Hg). During certification, the systolic, mean, and diastolic diameters of the mock vessel are determined at the test pressure and frequency to verify adherence to specifications.
Patient Models
Manufacturing silicone arteries and veins from patient-based geometry are a specialty of BDC Laboratories. We utilize advanced software packages to extract the desired vascular geometry from the raw DICOM images. Data can be submitted in STL file format as well. Once within BDC Labs, our team can manipulate the geometry to change diameters, lengths, tortuosity, and angulations. Finally, vascular disease states, such as aneurysms and coarctations, can be added or removed from the patient’s vasculature to create the exact silicone mock vessel required for testing. Once the model construction in software is complete, the physical manufacturing process begins. Models can be built to specific diameter and compliance specifications, or to a representative feel.
BDC Laboratories’ models have been used for validation and verification testing, as well as for marketing materials and advisory board demonstrations. Please contact us with your silicone mock vessel needs and allow us to help you achieve your goals, while exceeding your expectations.