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Three-dimensional printed models in congenital heart disease
Massimiliano Cantinotti1,2, Israel Valverde3,4,5,6, Shelby Kutty7
1Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, Massa, Pisa, Italy.
The International Journal of Cardiovascular Imaging
|September 29, 2016
Summary
Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers valuable models for congenital heart disease (CHD) planning, accurately replicating complex anatomy. However, operator dependency, cost, and time limitations necessitate standardization and further research for wider clinical adoption.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging and Technology
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Congenital heart disease (CHD) presents complex anatomical challenges.
- Three-dimensional (3D) printing has emerged as a promising tool in cardiovascular medicine.
- Advances in 3D modeling have enabled high-fidelity reproductions of cardiac anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the technical considerations of 3D printing in congenital heart disease (CHD).
- To review the current applications of 3D printed models in CHD management.
- To identify limitations and future directions for 3D printing in this field.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on 3D printing applications in CHD.
- Analysis of technical aspects including image acquisition, segmentation, and printing processes.
- Evaluation of model characteristics (e.g., rigidity, flexibility, accuracy).
Main Results:
- 3D models can accurately reproduce complex CHD anatomy with minimal error (<1 mm).
- 3D printing is valuable for surgical and percutaneous treatment planning in select CHD cases.
- Current limitations include operator dependency, inability to replicate dynamic cardiac variations, high costs, and lengthy production times (18-24 hours).
Conclusions:
- Standardization of image acquisition, segmentation, printing materials, and cardiac cycle phase is needed.
- Further studies are required to assess the diagnostic accuracy and cost-effectiveness of 3D printed models in CHD care.
- Despite limitations, 3D printing holds significant potential for improving outcomes in congenital heart disease treatment planning.
