Using Multimodality Imaging and 3-Dimensional Printed Models to Guide Decision-Making for Complex Congenital...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Conventional 2D echocardiography and cross-sectional imaging pose challenges in surgical planning for complex congenital heart disease (CHD).
• Accurate anatomical assessment is crucial for determining optimal surgical strategies in CHD patients.

Observation:

• An 11-month-old patient with heterotaxy syndrome, dextrocardia, double-outlet right ventricle, and pulmonary valve stenosis presented with complex cardiac anatomy.
• Multidisciplinary discussion was essential for planning a staged cardiac repair due to the intricate nature of the condition.

Findings:

• Three-dimensional (3D) printed and virtual heart models, alongside CMR angiography, offered detailed visualization and spatial understanding.
• These advanced imaging techniques facilitated assessment of a staged biventricular repair's feasibility.
• Postoperative CMR was instrumental in guiding subsequent surgeries, evaluating repair structures, and identifying complications.

Implications:

• Multimodality imaging, particularly advanced techniques like 3D modeling, plays a critical role in surgical planning for complex CHD.
• Enhanced visualization and spatial conceptualization improve the precision and success rates of complex cardiac surgeries.
• This case underscores the value of integrating novel imaging modalities into the management of pediatric congenital heart defects.