High-Fidelity 3D Simulation of Soft Tissue Cutting via Adaptive Cohesive Zone Modeling: Toward Digital Surgery

This project aims to improve surgical simulations by developing advanced computer models to simulate how soft tissues behave during surgeries. It will focus on modeling tissue fracture and how surgical tools interact with tissue, considering factors such as tissue anisotropy, residual stresses, and complex tool geometries. Current finite element (FE) models developed at UBC assume material isotropy and rely on a pre-defined path for tissue cracks, limiting their ability to simulate puncture mechanics with complex tool geometries like those found in real surgical procedures. To overcome these limitations, this project will implement an adaptive cohesive zone model (CZM), which allows the crack path to be determined in real-time based on tissue behavior. In collaboration with experts from TU Graz, the project will refine and validate these models using their specialized expertise and advanced testing equipment, which are unavailable at UBC. This collaboration will benefit both UBC and TU Graz by connecting complementary expertise and fostering long-term partnerships, leading to student exchanges and future research funding opportunities. The outcomes of this project will be transformative for digital surgery, positioning Canada as a global leader in digital and medical technologies.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mattia Bacca

Student:

Partner:

Graz University of Technology

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: