Surgical Simulation Model of the Meniscus

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It is proposed to design and validate a computer-simulation model of the tissue forming the menisci of the human knee. This research would be pursued as part of the Industry/University Cooperative Research Center for Interactive Computer Graphics at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Modern minimally-invasive surgical techniques make it conceptually possible to construct a surgical-training simulator, and research will be directed towards this goal. Modeling constraints are different from those normally encountered in either computer graphics or biomechanics. The model must be capable of supporting real-time simulation, produce visualizations showing both the structural character and the surface of the material, and provide a convincing mechanical response. Simulations will treat meniscal tissue as a composite consisting of fluid within a porous solid matrix. Initial modeling will capitalize on two very different methodologies: 1) finite-element, and 2) particle-system approximation. The finite- element approach promises highly accurate biomechanical representation, while the particle-system approach will be more amenable to parallelization and graphical rendering. The eventual goal is to develop a hybrid representation. In addition to the principal investigator, it is proposed to support a woman undergraduate student from Williams College. All personnel are highly qualified. The Program Manager recommends that Williams College, a RUI, be awarded $30,000 for one (1) year for this project. This includes $5,000 for "Supplemental Funding of Women, Minority and Handicapped Engineering Research Assistants.