3D Stereolithography for hollow cerebral aneurysm models

Abstract

The use of 3D models in planning and simulation of surgical activity is becoming more and more an effective tool to acquire information crucial for formulating a strategy in the treatment of aneurysms, improving the safety and the success of the surgical procedure. These preoperative activities have been made possible by stereolithography printer (SLA) technology that can replicate geometries customized on patients’ anatomy. This can be obtained from the DICOM data of the patient that are converted to CAD and processed by a 3D printer.In a previous study by the authors, 3D models of aneurysms were produced by SLA using a complex and opaque resin. The present work constitutes a progression on this pathway, focused on fabricating hollow models. Two different SLA printers were used. The first one was to process hollow geometries made of a rigid translucent resin (epoxy/acrylic mixture). The second machine returned hollow geometries by using a flexible clear acrylic resin. Both rigid and deformable models were characterized and compared. A dimensional evaluation of recesses in the aneurysm cavity and surrounding vascular structures was conducted by insertion of a calipered tool, and the models were validated by surgeons. The newly developed model resulted of interest in both pre-operatory activities as well as training and teaching.