Applications of 3D printing in breast cancer management

Arpine Galstyan,Fluvio Lobo,Tatiana Kelil,Michael J Bunker,Rita Mukhtar,Jack Stubbs,Robert Sims,James Inziello

doi:10.1186/s41205-021-00095-8

Arpine Galstyan, Fluvio Lobo + Show 6 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s41205-021-00095-8

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Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a method by which two-dimensional (2D) virtual data is converted to 3D objects by depositing various raw materials into successive layers. Even though the technology was invented almost 40 years ago, a rapid expansion in medical applications of 3D printing has only been observed in the last few years. 3D printing has been applied in almost every subspecialty of medicine for pre-surgical planning, production of patient-specific surgical devices, simulation, and training. While there are multiple review articles describing utilization of 3D printing in various disciplines, there is paucity of literature addressing applications of 3D printing in breast cancer management. Herein, we review the current applications of 3D printing in breast cancer management and discuss the potential impact on future practices.

Highlights

3D printing, referred to as additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping, involves the creation of 3D objects from 2D virtual data using material that is either fused or deposited layer-by-layer from the ground up [1]
breast conservation surgery (BCS) followed by radiation therapy has been validated as an equivalent alternative to mastectomy, with similar survival rates, (2021) 7:6 acceptable rates of local recurrence, and better cosmetic outcomes [13,14,15]
The physical models provide detailed information about anatomic relationships between the tumor, overlying skin, nipple, and pectoralis muscle, beyond what is traditionally depicted with mammograms and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and enhance visualization of the overall breast and tumor volume (Fig. 1)

Summary

Introduction

Supplementing wire needle and non-wire localization methods with perioperative use of 3D printed models provides a tangible depiction of the patient’s breast and disease extent, facilitating planning of surgical options and approach. The physical models provide detailed information about anatomic relationships between the tumor, overlying skin, nipple, and pectoralis muscle, beyond what is traditionally depicted with mammograms and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and enhance visualization of the overall breast and tumor volume (Fig. 1).

Results

Conclusion