World's first cyber heart hailed as revolution for surgeons



London doctors today unveiled the world’s first 'cyber' heart, which they believe will revolutionise cardiac care.

The 3D computer model was developed by consultant cardiac anaesthetist Sue Wright at The Heart Hospital and is set to bring training into the 21st century.



Experts say the technology is the biggest advance since Leonardo da Vinci transformed understanding of the heart 500 years ago.



Breakthrough: Doctors Andrew Smith, Sue Wright and Bruce Martin show off the virtual heart

It is expected to improve the accuracy of cardiac operations and speed up surgery times.



Doctors can 'slice' through the model displayed on a computer screen to show the internal structures of the heart.



In detail: The World's first cyber heart is hoped to revolutionise cardiac training

Trainee surgeons currently train using text books, video clips and heart scanning — which is labour intensive and carries risks for patients.



Students can now study the organ by looking at a computer screen.

The virtual heart was developed with a digital animation firm. Glassworks, based in Soho, is best known for special effects such as its goblin in a TV commercial for soft drink Sprite.

Ms Wright said: 'We’re hoping that the NHS will use this animated heart to revolutionise training.'

