Abstract
This paper deals with additive manufacturing techniques for the creation of 3D fetal face models starting from routine 3D ultrasound data. In particular, two distinct themes are addressed. First, a method for processing and building 3D models based on the use of medical image processing techniques is proposed. Second, the preliminary results of a questionnaire distributed to future parents consider the use of these reconstructions both from an emotional and an affective point of view. In particular, the study focuses on the enhancement of the perception of maternity or paternity and the improvement in the relationship between parents and physicians in case of fetal malformations, in particular facial or cleft lip diseases.
Highlights
Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies are widely used in different application fields
Survey Results and Discussion coming from routine pregnancy checks. This procedure allows to overcome the practical problems faced in the export and in the use of ultrasound images from most medical equipment used in diagnostic that do not allow the ability to reconstruct the model directly in some CAD format or to export the entire stack of images acquired during the ultrasound examination
Since literature lacks studies considering the use of 3D printing models of fetuses for emotional and memory purposes, the analysis of the results, obtained with this preliminary survey, is fundamental in comparison to some studies related to the use of 3D/4D ultrasound as a mean for strengthening the maternal-fetal bonding as in [22]
Summary
Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies are widely used in different application fields. The possibility to use AM techniques in the field of the direct fabrication of models extracted from routine ultrasound data and in particular of 3D baby face printing applications has been explored [15, 16]. The paper describes a method for the extraction and elaboration of routine prenatal ultrasound medical images for the reconstruction of 3D printable models of fetal faces The use of this type of models enables a more accurate study of the baby’s shape and an early detection of any malformations or pathologies. The chosen software was Simpleware ScanIp, which allowed viewing, analyzing, quantifying segments, and exporting 3D images from different types of medical scans: MRI CT, microtomography, ultrasound, and so on This way, after creating a new mask, it is advisable to apply smoothing algorithms to reduce the noise in the images. The steps highlighted in our procedure are intended to provide a simple and repeatable process for reconstructing three-dimensional models that use images (a)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
