The journey from atherosclerosis 
to carotid artery stenting

VOKA created an engaging 3D animated video explaining carotid artery stenting for a patient-centered healthcare facility

Objectives

  • Educate patients with the help of clear and engaging visual explanations of atherosclerosis.
  • Help patients make informed decisions easier while participating in communications with HPs
  • Reduce patient procedure-related anxiety.

Target audience

  • Patients diagnosed with atherosclerosis who are candidates for stenting.
  • Family members and caregivers seeking information about the procedure.
  • Healthcare professionals looking for supplementary visual aids for patient education.

Client and challenge

Our client, a healthcare facility with a focus on patient-centricity, prioritizes patient education and provides their patients with the knowledge they need for informed consent about their cardiovascular health. The company recognizes the prevalence of carotid artery atherosclerosis and the importance of stenting as a treatment option. To offer the clinic’s patients a detailed yet easy-to-digest understanding of the procedure, they needed a new communication method like 3D visualization. Given the unique expertise of VOKA in creating 3D medical video and animated content, we were entrusted with the task.

Solution

VOKA came up with a custom 3D animated video to help people understand carotid artery stenting better. Our video gives a highly detailed and medically accurate overview of the procedure using advanced animation techniques to present complex medical information in an accessible way.

Video creation process

1. Briefing and script writing

We held a detailed briefing with the client’s team to go over the project scope, objectives, and target audience. Our experts worked with in-house cardiologists to collect reference materials and create a first draft of the script. The script was carefully reviewed and refined until considered flawless.

2. Research

With the cardiologists providing a constant stream of references and insights, the VOKA team conducted extensive research on the anatomy, physiology, and surgical techniques of carotid artery stenting. We reviewed images, videos, and medical literature to make sure the animation looks anatomically accurate and realistic.

3. Storyboarding

Our team prepared a detailed storyboard that outlined the visual narrative of the animation. This included scene descriptions, camera angles, and transitions.

4. 3D modeling

Our modeling team used Blender software to create detailed 3D models of relevant anatomical structures, including the heart, carotid arteries, plaque buildup, guidewire, and stenting device. We then added realistic textures and materials to the 3D models to make them look more lifelike and accurate.

5. Animatic

We created an animatic, a preliminary version of the video using still images from the storyboard, to establish timing, pacing, and camera movement.

6. Scene shading

VOKA’s 3D artists focused on the visual aesthetics of the video, setting up shaders, customizing lighting, and applying textures to create a realistic and engaging look.

7. Animation

We further advanced the animatic using a combination of animation techniques, including:

  • Blend shapes for subtle motion
  • Procedural animation for automated effects
  • Fluid animation for realistic blood flow
  • Particle animation for visual effects

8. Rendering

We rendered the final frames of the animation using high-quality rendering software to achieve the best possible quality.

9. Audio and music integration

Our specialists recorded voiceovers, then selected appropriate background music and sound effects to enhance the animation’s emotional impact.

10. Post-production and montage

With the help of editing software, our experts combined the animation, sound effects, music, and text information into a cohesive final product.

11. Final review and approval

The final video underwent a comprehensive review by expert clinicians, the animation team, and the project manager, to ensure it met all the client’s objectives and quality standards.

Video content

The 3D animated video we produced delivers a comprehensive overview of carotid artery stenting to effectively communicate complex medical information to both medical professionals and patients.

Atherosclerosis explained

The animation offers a microscopic perspective of atherosclerotic plaque buildup within the carotid artery. As the plaque progressively encroaches upon the lumen, the video dynamically visualizes the resulting reduction in blood flow to the brain.

Procedure overview

Highlights the placement of a filter trap to capture any potential debris and prevent embolism.

  • Catheterization: Shows the insertion of a guide wire followed by an introducer sheath into the artery. The catheter is then being advanced over the guidewire through the introducer sheath to the blocked area of the carotid artery.
  • Filter protection: Highlights the placement of a filter trap to capture any potential debris and prevent embolism.
  • Balloon angioplasty: Clearly shows the inflation of a balloon to compress the plaque and widen the narrowed artery.
  • Stent deployment and expansion: Visualizes the role of the stent in maintaining blood flow.
  • Restoration of blood flow: Logically concludes with the restoration of blood flow through the stented carotid artery.

Result

This joint effort resulted in a high-quality 3D medical animation that effectively educates patients about carotid artery stenting. The animation brings together medical accuracy with engaging visuals offering clear doctor-patient  communication. This helps patients understand more about their condition and showcases the healthcare facility’s commitment to providing patient-centered care.

The video is currently available on YouTube for anyone interested in advanced cancer treatments.

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