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Published on: May 23, 2020
Advances in patient-specific 3D-printed models in temporal bone surgery.
Adam Omari1,2,3, Andreas Frithioff1, Steven Arild Wuyts Andersen1,3,4
1Copenhagen Hearing and Balance Center, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Rigshospitalet.
Summary
Patient-specific 3D-printed models offer a promising approach to enhance precision and safety in temporal bone surgery. Further clinical validation is needed before widespread adoption into standard surgical care.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Imaging
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Temporal bone surgery demands high precision due to proximity to critical structures.
- Traditional surgical planning relies on 2D imaging interpretation, which is cognitively demanding and prone to errors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the process of creating patient-specific 3D-printed temporal bone models.
- To assess the current applications of these models in surgical rehearsal, navigation, and patient communication.
Main Methods:
- Review of advancements in high-resolution imaging, segmentation, and 3D printing technologies.
- Analysis of existing literature on the use of 3D-printed temporal bone models in surgical practice.
Main Results:
- 3D-printed models facilitate surgical planning, navigation of complex anatomy, and refinement of surgical approaches.
- These models can serve as intraoperative 3D references, potentially reducing cognitive load.
- 3D models may enhance patient understanding and shared decision-making, though reports are limited.
Conclusions:
- Patient-specific 3D models show significant potential for improving surgical precision and safety.
- Current literature lacks high-level evidence and standardized reporting for these models.
- Rigorous clinical validation is required prior to integrating 3D-printed models into the standard of care.
