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Updated: May 19, 2026

Three-Dimensional Printing of a Complex Aortic Anomaly
Published on: November 1, 2018
Three-Dimensional-Printed Model-Assisted Management of Craniovertebral Junction Abnormalities: An Institutional
Prashant Agarwal1, Sanjeev Chopra1, Virendra Deo Sinha1
1Department of Neurosurgery, Sawai Man Singh Medical College, Jaipur, India.
Three-dimensional (3D)-printed models enhance surgical management of complex craniovertebral (CV) junction abnormalities by providing detailed anatomical insights. These models improve surgical outcomes and patient safety in treating conditions like atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD).
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Craniovertebral (CV) junction abnormalities present significant management challenges due to complex bony and vascular anatomy.
- Irreducible atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD) is typically managed with posterior reduction and stabilization.
- Three-dimensional (3D) models offer detailed visualization of the vertebral artery course and bony anomalies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the utility and limitations of 3D-printed models in managing CV junction abnormalities.
- To determine if 3D models improve surgical planning and outcomes for complex CV cases.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study analyzed 18 patients with CV junction abnormalities.
- Dynamic CT and CT angiography were used to create customized 3D models.
- Surgical procedures were rehearsed on 3D models prior to the actual surgery.
Main Results:
- All 18 patients, primarily with congenital AAD, showed improvement in neck pain and myelopathy.
- No screw malpositioning or direct vertebral artery injury occurred.
- One patient experienced vertebral artery compression due to a screw.
Conclusions:
- 3D-printed models are a practical tool for managing complex CV junction abnormalities.
- These models provide superior anatomical insight compared to computer-generated images.
- Enhanced understanding of anatomy through 3D models leads to improved surgical outcomes.
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