In Silico Trials, Real Impacts

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.

This episode asks: Can computer simulations provide credible regulatory evidence?

Learn about the hierarchical framework that ensures the trustworthiness of virtual trials, using a Lego analogy to break down complex processes into manageable pieces. Understand how virtual devices, patients, and even surgeons are modelled to reflect real-world scenarios.

We also discuss the broader implications of this innovative framework and how it could lead to faster, more personalized, and more inclusive medical device development. Tune in to uncover the future of medicine and the role you can play in shaping it.

Aycock KI, Battisti T, Peterson A, Yao J, Kreuzer S, Capelli C, Pant S, Pathmanathan P, Hoganson DM, Levine SM, Craven BA. Toward trustworthy medical device in silico clinical trials: a hierarchical framework for establishing credibility and strategies for overcoming key challenges. Front Med (Lausanne). 2024 Aug 12;11:1433372.

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.

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!