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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
Digital Hybrid Model Preparation for Virtual Planning of Reconstructive Dentoalveolar Surgical Procedures
Published on: August 5, 2021
Unveiling ccTGA complexity: CMR and 3D modelling for surgical planning-a case series
Irene Cao1,2, Vera Cetera1, Gaia Viganò1
1Department of Paediatric and Congenital Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Fondazione Toscana 'G. Monasterio', Heart Hospital of Massa, via Aurelia sud, 54100 Massa, Italy.
Advanced imaging, including cardiovascular magnetic resonance and 3D modeling, improved surgical planning for complex cases of congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (ccTGA). This enhanced precision led to successful anatomical repairs with preserved heart function in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (ccTGA) presents complex anatomical variations.
- Accurate preoperative assessment is crucial for surgical planning in ccTGA.
- Associated anomalies in ccTGA necessitate tailored surgical strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of integrated cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) and 3D modeling for surgical planning in complex pediatric ccTGA cases.
- To demonstrate the impact of patient-specific 3D models on operative strategy and outcomes.
- To highlight the role of advanced imaging in managing challenging congenital heart disease.
Main Methods:
- Multimodal imaging including transthoracic echocardiography and CMR.
- Generation of patient-specific virtual and 3D-printed models from CMR data.
- Surgical simulation and multidisciplinary planning using 3D models.
- Stepwise assessment of ventricular function, septal defects, and outflow tract relationships.
Main Results:
- Successful anatomical repair was achieved in all four pediatric patients with complex ccTGA.
- No early mortality was observed post-surgery.
- Preserved biventricular function was noted at short-term follow-up.
- 3D reconstructions guided critical surgical decisions, including VSD tunneling and ventriculotomy site selection.
Conclusions:
- Integrating CMR with patient-specific 3D modeling significantly enhances spatial understanding for complex ccTGA.
- This approach supports individualized surgical planning and improves decision-making in challenging congenital heart disease.
- Incorporating advanced imaging into clinical workflows is a valuable strategy for precision surgery.
