RBF Morph is proud to participate in ROMed2VR, a research initiative focused on enhancing pre-surgical planning for congenital heart defects through the integration of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Virtual Reality (VR). The project aims to develop an advanced computational framework that combines open-source CFD with Reduced Order Models (ROM) to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the Modified Blalock-Taussig Shunt procedure.

The project officially commenced with a meeting in Trieste, Italy, on November 25, 2024, where objectives and methodologies were discussed. RBF Morph contributes its expertise in ROM-based CFD applications, allowing for real-time simulations that support clinical decision-making. By leveraging advanced shape morphing techniques and model reduction strategies, RBF Morph enables surgeons to visualize and assess complex fluid dynamics scenarios with unprecedented speed and accuracy.

ROMed2VR is a collaborative effort that brings together leading organizations in the fields of CFD, digital health, and cardiovascular research. The project consortium includes ENGYS, specializing in open-source CFD solutions; InSilicoTrials Technologies, known for its digital platforms for medical and pharmaceutical simulations; and BioCardioLab of Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, a research institution dedicated to cardiovascular innovation.

Spanning 12 months (November 2024 – October 2025), the project is supported by a total budget of €426,644.42, with funding amounting to €319,010.23. By combining high-fidelity CFD simulations with immersive VR technology, ROMed2VR will provide medical professionals with an intuitive and interactive tool to optimize surgical planning. This initiative represents a significant step forward in the application of digital twin technology in healthcare, ultimately contributing to improved patient outcomes and more effective treatment strategies.