3D Organ Modeling with Open-Source Software.

To date, 3D organ modeling has not reached widespread clinical use, despite showing promise in medical literature. The majority of anatomic modeling that is presented in the literature is performed with proprietary software, presenting certain barriers to use such as price for usage rights. Open-source software not only circumvents this barrier, but also often provides greater customization offered by global communities. In this proof-of-concept experiment, a HeartMate II LVAD was "virtually fit" in a patient's left ventricle using only open-source software. Open-source programs provide a legitimate alternative to the proprietary software options. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.