In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of in silico trials—a cutting-edge approach that could revolutionize how new medical technologies are tested and approved. Imagine conducting clinical trials entirely within a computer simulation, bypassing the need for expensive and time-consuming real-world testing. This futuristic-sounding method is already being utilized today, offering a glimpse into the future of healthcare.

We delve into a groundbreaking study that leveraged in silico trials to test a new breast cancer screening technology called Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT). Unlike traditional mammograms, DBT provides a detailed 3D image of breast tissue, potentially improving early detection of cancer. By creating virtual patients and using advanced computer models, researchers simulated the effectiveness of DBT, achieving results that aligned with real-world clinical trials.

Join us as we discuss the implications of this technology not only for imaging but for drug development and personalized medicine. Could this be the end of traditional clinical trials? While in silico trials show immense potential, challenges remain, and real-world testing will still play a crucial role. Nevertheless, this innovative approach represents a significant step towards a more efficient and safer future in medical research and treatment.

Badano A, Graff CG, Badal A, Sharma D, Zeng R, Samuelson FW, Glick SJ, Myers KJ. Evaluation of Digital Breast Tomosynthesis as Replacement of Full-Field Digital Mammography Using an In Silico Imaging Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2018 Nov 2;1(7):e185474. 

In this episode, we embark on a journey into the world of virtual trials, particularly in the realm of medical imaging. Discover how digital twins—virtual replicas of human anatomy—are revolutionizing healthcare by offering safer, faster, and more efficient methods for testing new imaging technologies.

Learn about the incredible potential of virtual trials to optimize medical imaging techniques and personalize patient care. We discuss the challenges of accessibility, diversity, and reproducibility in this emerging field, and highlight the importance of collaboration among researchers, regulators, and patients.

Tune in to understand how virtual trials are not only advancing medical imaging but also driving a revolution that puts patients at the forefront of innovation. Join us as we uncover the real-world impact of these digital breakthroughs in healthcare.

Abadi E, Barufaldi B, Lago M, Badal A, Mello-Thoms C, Bottenus N, Wangerin KA, Goldburgh M, Tarbox L, Beaucage-Gauvreau E, Frangi AF, Maidment A, Kinahan PE, Bosmans H, Samei E. Toward widespread use of virtual trials in medical imaging innovation and regulatory science. Med Phys. 2024 Oct 6. doi: 10.1002/mp.17442.

Ever wondered if your brain has the ability to heal itself? In this episode, we delve into a medical mystery that feels like science fiction: the phenomenon of spontaneous thrombosis, where brain aneurysms may naturally seal themselves off. Discover how researchers are using advanced computer modelling with virtual patients to explore this incredible process.

We explain the basics of aneurysms, likening them to weak spots in a garden hose, and explore how size and shape affect their ability to self-heal. Larger and taller aneurysms are more prone to clotting due to slower blood flow, much like a still pond versus a rushing river.

Intriguingly, high blood pressure might actually hinder this self-repair process by creating turbulent blood flow. Through a detailed study of a virtual patient's aneurysm, researchers found that high blood pressure increases the shear rate, making clot formation less likely.

Join us as we explore the potential for leveraging the brain's natural healing abilities to treat aneurysms, moving towards a future where treatment is less invasive and more aligned with the body's innate capabilities. This research opens the door to personalized medicine and new hope for medical breakthroughs.

Liu Q, Sarrami-Foroushani A, Wang Y, MacRaild M, Kelly C, Lin F, Xia Y, Song S, Ravikumar N, Patankar T, Taylor ZA, Lassila T, Frangi AF. Hemodynamics of thrombus formation in intracranial aneurysms: An in silico observational study. APL Bioeng. 2023 Jul 7;7(3):036102. doi: 10.1063/5.0144848.

Can virtual patients revolutionise medical device testing? Our latest episode dives into groundbreaking in silico trials of the Pipeline Embolization Device for brain aneurysms. We'll explore how anatomical variations impact treatment success, and why this matters for equitable care. Join us to discover how computer simulations are paving the way for safer, more inclusive medical innovations. It's not just code – it's about saving lives fairly.

Our latest episode explores FD-PASS, a virtual study that's revolutionising medical device testing. We'll unpack how this innovative approach simulated virtual patients to evaluate flow-diverting stents for intracranial aneurysms. Discover how FD-PASS not only mirrored real-world clinical trial results but also unveiled crucial insights into treatment failures. Could this be the future of medical research? Tune in to learn how virtual trials are reshaping the landscape of healthcare innovation and paving the way for more efficient, insightful studies.

Sarrami-Foroushani A, Lassila T, MacRaild M, Asquith J, Roes KCB, Byrne JV, Frangi AF. In-silico trial of intracranial flow diverters replicates and expands insights from conventional clinical trials. Nat Commun. 2021 Jun 23;12(1):3861. doi: 10.1038/s41467-021-23998-w.

Welcome to Insilico Trials Real Impact, the podcast that's transforming our understanding of medical innovation. Discover how in silico clinical trials are revolutionising medical device development! Join us as we explore how computer simulations are making healthcare safer, faster, and more accessible. From accelerating innovation to enhancing patient safety, learn how this groundbreaking approach is paving the way for more equitable care worldwide. Tune in to 'In Silico Trials, Real Impact!' – where virtual testing meets real-world breakthroughs!