A Personalized, 3D Printed Polymeric Device for the Prevention of Post-Myocardial Infarction Cardiac Remodeling

Myocardial remodeling and dilatation following myocardial infarction initiates a life-threatening process leading to heart failure. As every patient's anatomy and pathophysiology are unique, developing a custom-made cardiac restraint device tailored for each patient is crucial. This study introduces a personalized, 3D printed cardiac restraint device (CARD) aimed at restoring cardiac physiology and preventing cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction. Personalization is achieved by 3D printing the CARD based on precise anatomical and physiological data from the CT and Echocardiography scan. The rationally designed printable molecules (“inks”) key to this research are developed using a modular synthetic strategy. The inks consist of a triblock structure consisting of a central polypropylene oxide (PPO) segment and two side polycaprolactone (PCL) blocks, end-capped with the C═C double bonds required for printing. Studies conducted on rat and swine myocardial infarction models demonstrated the capability of the integrated use of imaging, designing and 3D printing, to fabricate a CARD that accommodates to the cardiac anatomy without compromising the diastolic function. Improved hemodynamic profiles following CARD implantation suggest enhanced left ventricular function and better fluid dynamics within both cardiac and pulmonary systems. No device-related mortality occurred, and the CARD remained securely in place for 28 days post-implantation.