FAQ

  • General
    How should I cite your product or service when publishing an article or other medias?
    Upon citing our iTFlow® product and/or service in any published documentations (articles, medias, etc.) please refer to the recommended citation format below.

    Example format when citing 「iTFlow」:
    iTFlow® Ver.1.○.○ (Cardio Flow Design, Inc, Tokyo, Japan)

    Example format when citing 「iTFlow2」:
    iTFlow® Ver.2.○.○ (Cardio Flow Design, Inc, Tokyo, Japan)

    ※You can check your current version of the software via [Properties] → [Details].
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    I’d like to request an urgent analysis.
    Please contact us first. In some cases, we can deliver the product in a few days by trimming down the content of the analysis.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What is the cost of the simulation?
    It depends on the contents of the case and analysis.
    The price for companies in general is about $3,500 for small-scale analysis and about $7,500 for complex analysis.
    Prices for university researchers range from $800to $3,500.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    Can I get a discount?
    Basically, we only sell software and contracted analysis at a fixed price, but depending on the analysis, we may be able to offer a discount by reducing man-hours, so please contact us first.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    How long does it take to analyze the simulation?
    It usually takes about a month for each case to be completed. If you are in a hurry, please contact us first to see if we can make it to you in time.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do you need to simulate the coronary arteries?
    The following data is required
    • Contrast-enhanced CT (DICOM format, thin slice)
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do you need to simulate the cerebral arteries?
    The following data is required.
    • Contrast-enhanced CT (DICOM format)
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do you need for aortic simulation?
    The following data will be required.
    • Contrast-enhanced CT (DICOM format)
    • Patient's body surface area
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do I need for the Norwood simulation?
    The following data will be required.
    • Contrast-enhanced CT (DICOM format)
    • AA/AS information
    • Patient's body surface area
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do I need for Fontan simulation?
    The following data will be required.

    • Contrast-enhanced CT (DICOM format)
    • left and right lung resistance (approximate left and right PA flow ratios, etc. are also acceptable)
    • Patient's body surface area.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    How do I ask for a virtual surgical simulation?
    Please contact us first for a discussion.

    The analysis process includes:
    1. Online meeting for a discussion and estimate.
    2. Creating a virtual surgery arterial shape.
    4. Computer simulation to calculate blood flow in the virtual vessel.
    5. Report on the analysis.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    How can I apply for a contracted simulation analysis?
    First of all, please contact info@cfd.life about the analysis contents. The steps are the following
    1. Consultation and quotation by email or online meeting
    2. Order
    3. Sending the necessary data and analyze
    4. We send a report
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do you need for the analysis?
    All you need to know is the shape of the vessel and the flow rate, and we will analyze each case manually, so we can use a variety of inputs such as CT, MRI, CAD models and drawings.
    For analysis of actual cases, it is common to use CT for analysis.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What is the minimum number of CT detector row for the analysis to be performed?
    The ability to accurately extract the shape of a vessel is important in CFD, and as a guide to image quality, the outline of a narrowed coronary artery must be visually identifiable.
    Even if the image quality is poor, it is possible to modify the image based on the angiogram, so it is highly likely that analysis is possible even with an older 64-row device, for example.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    Is it possible to determine the most optimal anastomosis position of the Fontan conduit in a virtual simulation?
    We can provide virtual surgery technique that will provide useful information for comparing blood flow in multiple surgical techniques.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    I want to use a virtual surgical simulation to decide on a surgical course of action.
    Please contact us for and we will introduce you to an introduction to Dr. Itatani. (Our software and services are for research purposes only, not for medical equipment, and we are not able to provide information on decision making in practice.)
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    I found another company’s blood flow simulation software, please tell me the difference.
    We only provide contract analysis for simulations, which are custom-made, where a model is created for each customer's purpose, one by one. Numerical fluid dynamics simulations are technically difficult to perform, so our fluid dynamics experts analyze each case manually in order to provide a highly reliable analysis.
  • General
    Is blood flow analysis available for valvular disease and cardiomyopathy?
    Blood flow in the heart and near the valves are also suited for 4D flow MRI because structures such as valves and heart walls have a significant impact on flow.
    Our team can calculate energy loss and wall shear stress.
    If CFD Simulation is based on CT, the valve and endocardial lumen movement cannot be calculated.

  • iTEcho (Echo VFM & IVPG)
    Can iTEcho® software be used with Echo VFM images from Canon Medical Systems?
    iTEcho® is only available for analysis on GE Healthcare or Philips device.
  • iTEcho (Echo VFM & IVPG)
    Can iTEcho® use the Echo VFM software with Philips images?
    Yes, iTEcho® supports both GE Healthcare and Philips image data.
  • iTEcho (Echo VFM & IVPG)
    What is the output format for sending iTFlow analysis data to GateWay?
    The output of the analysis results in iTFlow is:

    Still image: PNG
    Video: Sequentially numbered PNG images and WMV, MPEG4
    Graphs, etc.
    Quantitative values: Text (CSV)
    This is the basis of the system. As for the output format, we can modify it to fit your hospital's system, so please contact us for more information.

  • iTEcho (Echo VFM & IVPG)
    What are the system requirements for installing iTEcho®? What is the recommended environment for installing iTEcho®?
    Minimal:
    OS: Windows 10 64 bit (Japanese or English)
    Monitor resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) or higher
    Interface: mouse with wheels.

    Recommended:
    CPU: Intel(R) Core (TM) i7-9700 or more,
    Memory: 8GB or more
  • General
    Please give me diagrams and materials for conference presentations and research funding applications.
    You are free to use the information on our web pages. If you need additional data, please feel free to contact us.
  • General
    Can I request to give a lecture at a research meeting?
    It is possible. Please email us at info@cfd.life.
  • General
    We are considering tailoring the software for research purposes.
    Please feel free to contact us. We will discuss with you whether we can develop a software that meets your needs.
  • General
    Is it possible to have one sample analyzed?
    As for iTFlow (4D Flow MRI), you can analyze samples data on a trial basis. We will send you a video of the analysis without quantitative values. Please send us a complete set of data, and we will select the most suitable ones for analysis.

    CFD, however, is not available for trial analysis due to the high cost of licenses for supercomputers and numerical analysis software.
  • General
    Is it possible to measure the stress on the blood vessels?
    4D Flow MRI, simulation or Echo VFM can be used. However, simulation is the most accurate method to measure wall shear stress.
  • General
    Is it possible to analyze Valsalva?
    It is possible to visualize eddy currents created in Valsalva sinus as well as quantification of flow velocities. Simulation or 4D Flow MRI is suitable for this.
  • General
    Can blood flow analysis be used to evaluate the performance of medical devices?
    We have experience in using simulations and MRI to evaluate medical devices. Please contact us so that we can discuss about the most appropriate evaluation method.
  • General
    Is it possible to analyze the carotid artery?
    There are two methods for carotid artery blood flow analysis: CFD and 4D Flow MRI.

    CFD can be done with either CT or MRI as long as the 3D geometry of the vessel is available, so either CT or MRI can be used as long as the vessel geometry can be accurately grasped.
    Although contrast enhanced images are easier to analyze, in many cases it is possible to analyze a simple vessel if the exact shape can be determined visually.
    If you send us the data, we will verify that it can be analyzed.

    4D Flow MRI is an MRI imaging method that allows you to capture blood flow velocity directly on MRI and WSS and flow rate can be measured in the same way as CFD.
    Please note that data 4D Flow MRI sequence is required.
  • General
    What indicators can be quantified from blood flow analysis?
    Flow rate, flow velocity map, energy loss, pressure map (CFD), vorticity, wall shear stress, oscillatory shear index and helicity are major hemodynamic parameters calculated in flow analysis. If you need additional parameters, please send us references and we will calculate them.
  • General
    Is it possible to analyze the aorta’s blood flow?
    Aortic diseases can be analyzed by both 4D Flow and CFD. However, in aortic dissections where flap movement affects blood flow, flap movement cannot be calculated by CFD, so it is a limitation. CFD is recommended if you want to perform virtual surgery, otherwise 4D Flow is the best choice.
  • General
    Is it possible to analyze a small diameter vessel?
    In the case of small diameter vessels, the simulation scenario is more suitable. We will offer the most appropriate method according to the purpose of the analysis and the data we have, so please contact us first.
  • General
    Is it possible to analyze the aortic arch?
    Indeed, three methods of analysis are possible: 4D Flow MRI, Echo and simulation.
    The aortic arch has its own characteristics, such as accelerated blood flow, spirals, and reverse flow, that can be visualized and quantified.
    We can also visualize the energy loss caused by turbulence, the appearance of blood flow colliding with the wall as a vector and measure the Wall Shear Stress caused by the collision.
  • General
    Is blood flow analysis of the coronary arteries possible?
    As for the evaluation of the coronary arteries, it is difficult to capture images with 4D Flow due to its size, so it is better to use CFD from coronary angiography CT. However, it is still possible to calculate wall shear stress, flow and pressure in each branch. Virtual surgery is also possible, so it is possible to predict the differences in graft design.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    Is it possible to analyze 2D Phase Contrast MRI?
    It is possible. Energy loss and flow rate are analyzed in two-dimensional units.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    What are the advantages and disadvantages of 2D Phase Contrast MRI?
    Since the analysis results are limited to 2-dimensional cross-sections, the desired analysis results cannot be obtained if the characteristic flow, for example, the central axis of the stenotic jet is not captured in the cross-section.
    On the other hand, it takes less time for acquisition.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    What is the price of the software?
    Prices vary depending on the type of license. Please contact us to get a quote for your requirements.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    Is it possible to analyze MRI by speckle tracking?
    It is expected to be available soon as a beta feature in development.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    Is a demo version of the software available?
    It is available. We will be happy to meet with you online and explain how to install and use it. Please contact us at info@cfd.life.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    I would like to request a free verification of the sample imaged data.
    We will send you information on the recommended imaging methods. Please contact us at info@cfd.life.
    We provide support for the all the MRI maker according to recommended imaging methods.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    What is the imaging protocol for 4D Flow MRI?
    The following conditions are recommended for cardiac imaging:
    • Sagital
    • Venc is 1.5 ~ 2.0m/s
    • 4D Flow and Cine images for segmentation.
    • Slice width: 4mm max
    • More than 15 phases per cardiac cycle
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    What are the system requirements for implementing 4D Flow? What are the recommended PC requirements?
    Minimum:
    OS: Windows 10 64 bit (Japanese or English)
    Monitor resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) or higher
    Interface: Mouse with wheels

    Recommended:
    CPU: Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-9700 or higher
    RAM: 16GB or higher
    GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 or higher

    Analysis speed is CPU-dependent and less RAM means less stability.
    We can also provide you an estimate for a recommended PC.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    Is it possible to substitute the analysis of 4D Flow MRI for a continuous section of 2D Phase Contrast?
    It is possible. If you have any concern, please tell us and we will check the compatibility. We will adapt the software for a better compatibility with your data.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    We have a different 4D Flow analysis software, what is the difference?
    Our iTFlow is unique in its ability to track and analyze beats without contrast. It can also calculate various hemodynamic indices based on fluid analysis techniques.

    Demo and trial versions are available. We will support you in the interpretation of blood flow. In addition to 4D Flow MRI, we also provide comprehensive support for CFD and other methods of blood flow analysis, so please feel free to contact us if you have any technical problems.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    Is it possible to quantify WSS (Wall Shear Stress) with iTFlow?
    It is possible to measure the average, maximum, and minimum values of stress in the measured area by enclosing it on the 3D screen.
    It is also possible to draw the WSS in a cardiac cycle change’s graph.

  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    What are the possibilities with iTFlow?
    4D Flow MRI data can be analyzed to visualize streamlines and pathlines, assess flow rates, measure cardiac volumes, measure energy loss, and analyze stress on the wall.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    I’d like to request an urgent analysis.
    Please contact us first. In some cases, we can deliver the product in a few days by trimming down the content of the analysis.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What is the cost of the simulation?
    It depends on the contents of the case and analysis.
    The price for companies in general is about $3,500 for small-scale analysis and about $7,500 for complex analysis.
    Prices for university researchers range from $800 to $3,500.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    How long does it take to analyze the simulation?
    It usually takes about a month for each case to be completed. If you are in a hurry, please contact us first to see if we can make it to you in time.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do you need to simulate the coronary arteries?
    The following data is required
    • Contrast-enhanced CT (DICOM format, thin slice)
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do you need to simulate the cerebral arteries?
    The following data is required.
    • Contrast-enhanced CT (DICOM format)
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do you need for aortic simulation?
    The following data will be required.
    • Contrast-enhanced CT (DICOM format)
    • Patient's body surface area
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do I need for the Norwood simulation?
    The following data will be required.
    • Contrast-enhanced CT (DICOM format)
    • AA/AS information
    • Patient's body surface area
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do I need for Fontan simulation?
    The following data will be required.

    • Contrast-enhanced CT (DICOM format)
    • left and right lung resistance (approximate left and right PA flow ratios, etc. are also acceptable)
    • Patient's body surface area.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    How do I ask for a virtual surgical simulation?
    Please contact us first for a discussion.

    The analysis process includes:
    1. Online meeting for a discussion and estimate.
    2. Creating a virtual surgery arterial shape.
    4. Computer simulation to calculate blood flow in the virtual vessel.
    5. Report on the analysis.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    How can I apply for a contracted simulation analysis?
    First of all, please contact info@cfd.life about the analysis contents. The steps are the following
    1. Consultation and quotation by email or online meeting
    2. Order
    3. Sending the necessary data and analyze
    4. We send a report
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What data do you need for the analysis?
    All you need to know is the shape of the vessel and the flow rate, and we will analyze each case manually, so we can use a variety of inputs such as CT, MRI, CAD models and drawings.
    For analysis of actual cases, it is common to use CT for analysis.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    What is the minimum number of CT detector row for the analysis to be performed?
    The ability to accurately extract the shape of a vessel is important in CFD, and as a guide to image quality, the outline of a narrowed coronary artery must be visually identifiable.
    Even if the image quality is poor, it is possible to modify the image based on the angiogram, so it is highly likely that analysis is possible even with an older 64-row device, for example.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    Is it possible to determine the most optimal anastomosis position of the Fontan conduit in a virtual simulation?
    We can provide virtual surgery technique that will provide useful information for comparing blood flow in multiple surgical techniques.
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    I want to use a virtual surgical simulation to decide on a surgical course of action.
    Please contact us for and we will introduce you to an introduction to Dr. Itatani. (Our software and services are for research purposes only, not for medical equipment, and we are not able to provide information on decision making in practice.)
  • iTSimulation (CFD simulation)
    I found another company’s blood flow simulation software, please tell me the difference.
    We only provide contract analysis for simulations, which are custom-made, where a model is created for each customer's purpose, one by one. Numerical fluid dynamics simulations are technically difficult to perform, so our fluid dynamics experts analyze each case manually in order to provide a highly reliable analysis.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    Is it possible to analyze MRI by speckle tracking?
    It is expected to be available soon as a beta feature in development.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    What is the price of the software?
    Prices vary depending on the type of license. Please contact us to get a quote for your requirements.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    What are the advantages and disadvantages of 2D Phase Contrast MRI?
    Since the analysis results are limited to 2-dimensional cross-sections, the desired analysis results cannot be obtained if the characteristic flow, for example, the central axis of the stenotic jet is not captured in the cross-section.
    On the other hand, it takes less time for acquisition.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    Is it possible to analyze 2D Phase Contrast MRI?
    It is possible. Energy loss and flow rate are analyzed in two-dimensional units.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    Is a demo version of the software available?
    It is available. We will be happy to meet with you online and explain how to install and use it. Please contact us at info@cfd.life.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    I would like to request a free verification of the sample imaged data.
    We will send you information on the recommended imaging methods. Please contact us at info@cfd.life.
    We provide support for the all the MRI maker according to recommended imaging methods.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    What is the imaging protocol for 4D Flow MRI?
    The following conditions are recommended for cardiac imaging:
    • Sagital
    • Venc is 1.5 ~ 2.0m/s
    • 4D Flow and Cine images for segmentation.
    • Slice width: 4mm max
    • More than 15 phases per cardiac cycle
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    What are the system requirements for implementing 4D Flow? What are the recommended PC requirements?
    Minimum:
    OS: Windows 10 64 bit (Japanese or English)
    Monitor resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) or higher
    Interface: Mouse with wheels

    Recommended:
    CPU: Intel(R) Core(TM) i7-9700 or higher
    RAM: 16GB or higher
    GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 or higher

    Analysis speed is CPU-dependent and less RAM means less stability.
    We can also provide you an estimate for a recommended PC.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    Is it possible to substitute the analysis of 4D Flow MRI for a continuous section of 2D Phase Contrast?
    It is possible. If you have any concern, please tell us and we will check the compatibility. We will adapt the software for a better compatibility with your data.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    We have a different 4D Flow analysis software, what is the difference?
    Our iTFlow is unique in its ability to track and analyze beats without contrast. It can also calculate various hemodynamic indices based on fluid analysis techniques.

    Demo and trial versions are available. We will support you in the interpretation of blood flow. In addition to 4D Flow MRI, we also provide comprehensive support for CFD and other methods of blood flow analysis, so please feel free to contact us if you have any technical problems.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    Is it possible to quantify WSS (Wall Shear Stress) with iTFlow?
    It is possible to measure the average, maximum, and minimum values of stress in the measured area by enclosing it on the 3D screen.
    It is also possible to draw the WSS in a cardiac cycle change’s graph.
  • iTFlow (4D Flow MRI)
    What are the possibilities with iTFlow?
    4D Flow MRI data can be analyzed to visualize streamlines and pathlines, assess flow rates, measure cardiac volumes, measure energy loss, and analyze stress on the wall.