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Updated: May 7, 2026
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Three-Dimensional Printing of a Complex Aortic Anomaly
Published on: November 1, 2018
Three-dimensional printing model of anomalous bronchi before surgery
Tadashi Akiba1, Takuya Inagaki, Takeo Nakada
1Department of Surgery, Jikei University Kashiwa Hospital, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan.
Summary
This study highlights a rare bronchial variation in a lung cancer patient. A 3D printed model aided in surgical planning and execution for this complex case.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Imaging
- Anatomical Variations
Background:
- Bronchial variations are uncommon, posing challenges in lung cancer surgery.
- Accurate pre-operative assessment is crucial for successful surgical outcomes.
Observation:
- A patient with lung cancer presented with an unusual variant anatomy of the right upper lobe bronchus.
- Three-dimensional multi-detector computed tomography angiography with bronchography and a 3D printing model were used for evaluation.
Findings:
- The variant anterior segment bronchus (S3) originated from the middle lobe bronchus.
- The 3D printing model accurately identified this variation, guiding surgical resection and intraoperative understanding.
Implications:
- 3D printing models can significantly improve the detection and evaluation of complex bronchial variations.
- This technology aids in precise surgical planning for lung cancer patients with anatomical anomalies.
