A double-walled magnetic resonance (MR) imaging-compatible container with a flexible diaphragm was designed to hold freshly excised porcine heart-lung preparations. The saline contents simulate MR signal of an actual chest wall. Continuous evacuation keeps the lung inflated. A variety of experiments with different imaging modalities, including angiography, under close to in vivo conditions are feasible. Access to bronchial system and lung vessels allows for various studies.
Copyright RSNA, 2002