Workflow Analysis, Modelling and Simulation for Improving Conventional and MRI-guided Vascular Interventions

This thesis proposes a multidirectional methodological framework for a comprehensive ergonomic analysis and modelling of workflow for multi-modal vascular image-guided procedures (IGPs). Two approaches are employed to analyse the workflow: Discrete Event Simulation (DES) and purpose-oriented physical models. In contrast to previous studies, the proposed methodology looks in detail the actions carried out within the intervention rooms and the clinical experience during the procedures with three main objectives: to provide a deeper understanding of vascular procedures, to predict the impact of protocol modifications and to offer a framework to develop new image-guided protocols for the alternative use of Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging in comparison with X-Ray Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA). The methodological framework includes an assessment of commercial simulation software packages to evaluate their fitness to the specific requirements of this research. The novel methodology is applied to several cases studies of common vascular IGPs. In addition, a case of MR – guided focused ultrasound intervention demonstrates how it is possible to extend the framework to study non-vascular IGPs. The multi-disciplinary methodological framework described opens a new way to understand IGPs that could be used in prospective applications such as medical education and medical devices regulations.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

Doctor of Philosophy

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

Doctoral Thesis

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Dundee

Year dc:date.issued

2014

Author dc:creator

• Fernandez-Gutierrez, Fabiola

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Melzer, Andreas
• Houston, John

• discrete event simulation
• workflow
• MRI
• Vascular radiology
• image-guided intervention

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

oai:discovery.dundee.ac.uk:studenttheses/6b7fca49-19ba-47b0-831a-ca9677084a7a

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:discovery.dundee.ac.uk:studenttheses/6b7fca49-19ba-47b0-831a-ca9677084a7a