How I Do It: Cost-effective 3D printed models for renal masses.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Medical Technology
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• 3D printing is increasingly adopted in surgical fields, particularly urology.
• Kidney tumor models are primarily used for anatomical understanding and surgical planning.
• Existing 3D kidney printing methods are often costly and complex, limiting routine use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a streamlined, cost-effective process for creating 3D kidney models.
• To make 3D printed kidney models more accessible for routine surgical planning and education.

Main Methods:

• Development of a simplified design and material selection for 3D kidney models.
• Implementation of a streamlined workflow for model creation.
• Cost analysis of the developed 3D kidney model printing process.

Main Results:

• Successful creation of 3D kidney models with an average cost of $30.
• The streamlined process is designed for practicality and repeatability.
• The developed method addresses limitations of previous costly and complex approaches.

Conclusions:

• A cost-effective and simplified 3D kidney model creation process has been established.
• This method can significantly increase the accessibility and routine use of 3D printed models in urological surgery.
• The approach facilitates better anatomical understanding and surgical planning for a wider patient base.