RBF Morph is contributing to ROMed2VR, a research initiative designed to enhance pre-surgical planning for congenital heart defects by integrating Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Virtual Reality (VR). This project aims to establish a streamlined computational workflow that leverages Reduced Order Models (ROM) to improve the precision and effectiveness of the Modified Blalock-Taussig Shunt procedure.

The project launched with an initial meeting in Trieste, Italy, on November 25, 2024, where the consortium outlined its objectives and collaborative strategies. RBF Morph’s expertise in ROM-based CFD applications plays a critical role in enabling real-time simulations, offering surgeons the ability to assess fluid dynamics scenarios with greater speed and accuracy. Through advanced shape morphing and model reduction methodologies, RBF Morph enhances the usability of CFD tools in a clinical setting.

ROMed2VR is a joint effort among leading organizations specializing in CFD, digital health solutions, and cardiovascular research. The consortium includes ENGYS, experts in open-source CFD solutions; InSilicoTrials Technologies, developers of medical and pharmaceutical simulation platforms; and BioCardioLab at Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, a research center focused on cardiovascular innovation.

The project will run for 12 months (November 2024 – October 2025), with a total budget of €426,644.42, supported by €319,010.23 in funding. By merging high-fidelity CFD models with immersive VR visualization, ROMed2VR will provide medical professionals with an interactive, data-driven tool for optimizing surgical procedures. This initiative represents a major advancement in medical digital twins, offering new possibilities for precision medicine and improved patient care.