Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 3, 2026
Evaluating Regional Pulmonary Deposition using Patient-Specific 3D Printed Lung Models
Published on: November 11, 2020
Printed three-dimensional airway model assists planning of single-lung ventilation in a small child
C A Wilson1, O J Arthurs2, A E Black3
1Department of Anaesthesia, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK carolineannewilson@gmail.com.
Insights
3D printing airway models enables precise bronchial intubation for pediatric single-lung ventilation. This technique enhances safety and planning for complex pediatric anesthesia procedures.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Medical Imaging
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Pediatric single-lung ventilation is challenging due to a lack of appropriately sized double-lumen cuffed tracheal tubes.
- A 6-year-old patient with alveolar proteinosis required sequential single-lung ventilation for safe oxygenation.
Observation:
- A 3D-printed, anatomically accurate, transparent plastic model of the patient's trachea and main bronchi was created using CT scan data.
- Various airway approaches were tested ex vivo on the model to determine the most suitable technique.
Findings:
- The 3D-printed model facilitated the selection of appropriate bronchial tube type and size.
- Pre-procedure practice on the model improved the success rate of the subsequent clinical intubation and ventilation.
Implications:
- 3D-printed airway models can significantly aid in planning complex procedures like bronchial intubation in pediatric patients.
- This technology holds potential for broader applications in anesthesia and surgical planning.
Background:
Single-lung ventilation in infants and small children is challenging because suitable sizes of double-lumen cuffed tracheal tubes are not available. A 6-yr-old child required pulmonary saline washout for primary alveolar proteinosis, and therefore needed sequential single-lung ventilation in order to achieve safe oxygenation. Before undertaking this potentially hazardous procedure, we practised bronchial intubation on an anatomical model of her airway constructed from computed tomography (CT) data.
Methods:
We created a full-scale, anatomically accurate, transparent plastic model of the trachea and main bronchi on a three-dimensional printer using data from a CT scan. We then performed several different airway approaches to identify those likely to be most suitable, ex vivo, before the clinical procedure was carried out on the patient.
Results:
The model helped us to choose the type and size of bronchial tubes and to practise their insertion beforehand. Subsequently, during anaesthesia, the chosen technique was successful.
Conclusions:
Three-dimensional printing of a model of the airway of a small child aided planning of bronchial intubation and single-lung ventilation. Three-dimensional printing of airway structures may have wider application in anaesthesia practice.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
01:16Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
01:14Ventilatory Modes
There are three ventilatory modes: full support, partial support, and spontaneous. These are described below.
Full Support Modes
Full support modes include controlled mechanical ventilation, continuous mandatory...
01:23Oxygen Delivering System III: Tracheostomy and T-piece
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) in the anterior part of the trachea. It is used to establish a patient airway, bypass an upper airway obstruction, simplify the removal of secretions, permit long-term...