Cardiac Computations
In the Cardiac Computations (CC) project, we develop computer models of electrophysiological and mechanical function in the heart, and use these models to study selected biomedical problems. To perform accurate computer simulations of a beating heart, a detailed, complex mathematical model is needed, which gives rise to a series of challenges. First, from a theoretical point of view, it is interesting to derive properties of the solutions. To solve these problems on a computer, one needs stable and fast numerical methods. Additionally, there are challenges related to how such complex systems can be implemented in software in an efficient, yet flexible way. In the project, we have addressed all of these topics, as well as cardiac application-oriented problems. Key application topics within the project focus on both the electrical signals that control contraction of the heart (cardiac electrophysiology) and on the contraction itself (cardiac mechanics).
The research of the CC project is mainly conducted in the Computational Cardiac Modeling (CaMo) department at Simula Resarch Laboratory. We also have close research collaboraton with the Center for Cardiological Innovation (CCI). CCI is a center for research-based innovation funded by the Research Council of Norway. The CCI is hosted by Oslo University Hospital, and with GE Vingmed Ultrasound as the main industrial partner. The main research goal of the CCI is to improve diagnosis and treatment of cardiac disease, by combining echocardiographic imaging with computer simulations of heart electrophysiology and mechanics.
Four key activities in the Cardiac Computations project are