To develop this surgical training tool, the Digital Lab utilized established 3D modeling protocols. The virtual 3D model of the heart was developed with the abnormal anatomical features observed in patients with atrial septostomy, notably, the transposition of the great arteries which impacts the proper flow of oxygenated blood. The model was developed in consultation with a pediatric cardiologist using contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans obtained from infants with this condition. After the virtual model was approved, a physical model was fabricated following standard procedures established by the Digital Lab.

To ensure that the 3D printed heart was able to effectively replicate the elasticity and texture of cardiac tissue and provide a realistic experience to users, flexible and rubber-like materials were utilized during the printing process. Extended blood vessels were included to replicate the access points used by surgeons completing this procedure.  A 5mm hole was created in the atrial septum to simulate the atrial septal defect (ASD). This 3D printed heart was then suspended within a simulator developed using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software. This simulator provides access points that accommodate training for different procedural approaches to ensure that the model is generalizable.