[Application of Three-Dimensional Printed Models in Congenital Heart Surgery: Surgeon's Perspective]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging

Context:

• Congenital heart disease (CHD) diagnosis and treatment require precise understanding of cardiac anatomy.
• Conventional imaging modalities like CT, MRI, and echocardiography can have limitations in visualizing complex CHD.
• Three-dimensional (3D) printed models offer enhanced visualization of intricate cardiac structures.

Purpose:

• To highlight the utility of 3D printed heart models in understanding and managing congenital heart disease.
• To demonstrate how 3D models overcome limitations of conventional imaging for complex cardiac malformations.
• To explore the current and future applications of 3D printing in CHD education, surgical simulation, and training.

Summary:

• 3D printed heart models accurately represent anatomical structures crucial for treating congenital heart disease.
• These models effectively address the challenges in identifying complex cardiac malformations that conventional imaging may present.
• Applications include medical education, preoperative simulation, and surgical decision-making for CHD.

Impact:

• 3D printing technology enhances the comprehension of complex cardiac anatomy in congenital heart disease.
• It improves surgical planning and simulation, potentially leading to better patient outcomes.
• This technology is pivotal for advancing surgical techniques and training cardiac surgeons in managing CHD.