Application of 3D-printing kidney and stones for PCNL planning and teaching: a preliminary research

Abstract

Objective To explore the possibility of three-dimensional (3D) kidney replications for clinical and teaching of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Methods The CT urography (CTU) DICOM format data from 5 patients with kidney calculi were selected from March 1st to June 1st, 2015.Thresholding technique, region growing technique, edit mask technique and multiple slice edit technique were used in sequence by Mimics software.And five 3D replications were printed by Object 500 3D printer. The sizes of the replications were measured and the replications were punctured. Results The 3D replications of the kidneys were successfully designed and printed.The average difference of the long axes between 3D replications and patients' kidneys was 0.283cm, the average difference of the diameters was 0.212cm, and the average difference of the diameter of the stones was 0.244cm. The sizes of the 3D replications were basically consistent with those of patients' kidneys.The simulative puncturing was successful. Conclusions After comparing the 3D replications with their original 2D CT images, the anatomical details are found basically the same.The 3D replications could provide 3D visual observations of organ anatomy for surgeons. Key words: Kidney calculi; Nephrostomy, percutaneous; 3D-printing; Surgical simulation; Teaching and training