Stenting of Complex Malignant Central-Airway Obstruction Guided by a Three-Dimensional Printed Model Of The Airways

Conversion of anatomic images into physical objects using three-dimensional printing (3DP) is changing the way surgeons anticipate selected technical challenges. We report herein a case of malignant central airway obstruction in the right main bronchus. Because stenting of the primary right carina is difficult, as it depends on many diameters and distance measurements, we used 3DP to plan and guide the procedure. After virtual resolution of the extrinsic compression, a three-dimensional printed model of the airways helped us choose the model and dimensions of the stent, and allowed us to modify its accuracy before insertion.