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Three-Dimensional Printing of a Complex Aortic Anomaly
Published on: November 1, 2018
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Three-dimensional printing guided precise surgery for right-sided aortic arch associated with Kommerell's
Nan Chen1,2, Kai Zhu1,2, Hongqiang Zhang1,2
1Department of Cardiac Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
Journal of Thoracic Disease
|July 26, 2017
Summary
Right-sided aortic arch with Kommerell's diverticulum is a rare complex defect. Three-dimensional (3D) printing models enhance surgical visibility and improve outcomes for this challenging condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Medical Imaging
- Congenital Heart Defects
Background:
- Right-sided aortic arch (RSAA) with Kommerell's diverticulum (KD) is a rare congenital anomaly.
- This condition presents complex surgical challenges due to aberrant anatomy.
- Optimal surgical outcomes require clear visualization of the aorta and its branches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of three-dimensional (3D) printing in guiding surgical repair of RSAA with KD.
- To assess the safety and efficacy of using 3D printed models in complex aortic defect surgery.
Main Methods:
- A case study of a 42-year-old male patient with RSAA, KD, and aberrant left subclavian artery.
- Surgical planning and guidance were performed using a patient-specific 3D printed model of the aortic arch.
- The surgical procedure was conducted with direct assistance from the 3D printed model.
Main Results:
- The 3D printed model provided direct and entire visibility of the aorta and its branches.
- The surgical procedure was successfully performed with the assistance of the 3D model.
- The patient experienced a satisfying surgical outcome.
Conclusions:
- The combination of 3D printing technology and surgical intervention offers a promising approach for treating complex aortic defects like RSAA with KD.
- 3D printing enhances surgical precision and visualization in complex congenital aortic anomalies.
- This technique represents a valuable advancement in the surgical management of rare aortic malformations.

