Computed Tomography Data to Generate a Reproducible, Anatomically Accurate Hemilaryngeal Model.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Anatomical Modeling
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Accurate anatomical models of the larynx are crucial for surgical planning and the development of regenerative therapies.
• Current methods may not fully capture the complex geometry of the vocal folds (VF), especially in pathological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the reproducibility and feasibility of creating hemilaryngeal models with medialized vocal folds (VF) using 3D modeling techniques.
• To validate these 3D models in both healthy and cancerous larynges.
• To establish a foundation for future 3D-printed laryngeal scaffolds tailored for surgical needs.

Main Methods:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans from healthy controls and laryngeal cancer patients were segmented.
• 3D modeling software was used to create hemilaryngeal models with medialized vocal folds (VF).
• Measurements from CT scans and 3D models were compared for accuracy and reproducibility.

Main Results:

• 3D modeling data closely matched CT data in healthy larynges, showing high reproducibility.
• A significant correlation was found between subglottic diameter and VF length, useful for inferring dimensions.
• Accurate 3D models were achievable in patients with laryngeal cancer, comparable to controls.

Conclusions:

• CT scan-based 3D modeling of the larynx and VF is a possible and reproducible technique.
• This method accurately models both healthy and cancerous larynges.
• The study supports the development of custom 3D-printed laryngeal scaffolds for surgical applications.