Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 26, 2025
04:22
Author Spotlight: Advancing Human Cardiac Anatomy Through Multi-Scale Analysis of Hearts
Published on: June 28, 2024
511
A role for ultra-high resolution three-dimensional printed human heart models
Susana Arango1,2, Benjamin Gorbaty1, John Brigham2
1Division of Cardiothoracic Anesthesia, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.
Echocardiography (Mount Kisco, N.Y.)
|June 22, 2023
Summary
3D printed heart models improve understanding of cardiac anatomy and pathology for perioperative echocardiography training. This novel educational tool enhances learning of echocardiographic views and interventions.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- 3D Printing Technology
Background:
- Echocardiography is crucial for perioperative heart disease assessment.
- Current training methods face limitations in anatomical detail and accessibility.
- Improving echocardiographic education is vital for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate 3D printed heart models as an educational tool.
- To enhance understanding of cardiac anatomy and echocardiographic views.
- To address limitations in current echocardiography training.
Main Methods:
- Micro computed tomography (CT) of human heart specimens.
- Creation of high-resolution computational 3D models.
- 3D printing of models with diverse materials and echocardiographic views.
Main Results:
- A library of 3D printed human hearts (healthy and diseased) was generated.
- Models accurately display recommended American Society of Echocardiography views.
- Models are utilized in clinical settings for resident and fellow education.
Conclusions:
- 3D printed hearts serve as a unique educational resource for perioperative echocardiography.
- This tool accelerates understanding of cardiac anatomy and pathology.
- It provides advanced appreciation of clinically employed echocardiography.
