In this work, we developed and validated a new wax-based sacrificial core material and process to enable the fabrication of anatomically accurate, PVA-based vascular phantoms. This approach provides the necessary mechanical stability for replicating thin and tortuous vasculature, while the low-temperature melting of wax preserves the integrity and mechanics of the hydrogel. The models obtained are designed for fluid dynamics studies, with potential applications in medical imaging, device testing, and cardiovascular research.
Thank you to all the co-authors for their invaluable contributions!
