Using 3D printed models for planning and guidance during endovascular intervention: a technical advance

Area of Science:

• Medical Engineering
• Interventional Radiology
• 3D Printing Technology

Background:

• 3D printing in medicine faces challenges with cost and complexity.
• The feasibility of creating patient-specific, hollow, small-caliber vascular models for device testing is unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the manufacturability and utility of patient-specific, small-caliber arterial models using 3D printing.
• To assess the application of these models in preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance for complex endovascular procedures.

Main Methods:

• Anatomically accurate, patient-specific arterial models were created using CT scan data.
• Free, open-source software and low-cost internet 3D printing services were utilized.
• Models were employed for preoperative testing of catheter equipment and procedural practice.

Main Results:

• Successfully produced full-scale, anatomically accurate, small-caliber arterial models.
• Preoperative testing identified optimal catheter positioning and selection, minimizing repeat angiograms.
• Intraoperative use of a 3D printed model as a reference facilitated a successful complex procedure.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing is a viable and cost-effective method for creating small-caliber vascular models.
• Patient-specific 3D printed vascular models enhance preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance.
• This technology offers practical benefits for complex endovascular interventions, improving outcomes and preserving organ function.