O-1 | 3D Printing of Patient-Specific Intravascular Stents for Congenital Heart Disease – Proof of Concept

Abstract

Patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) may require stent placement for various vascular stenoses. Multiple stents are used “off-label” for patients with CHD. There is a need for accessible, modifiable and customizable stents for patients with CHD. This study aims to provide proof of concept for patient-specific 3D printed metal stents for CHD. Five hearts of patients with CHD and vascular stenoses were identified from our anonymized model database and 3D printed. Custom stents were designed using SolidWorks and Meshmixer and 3D printed with steel using the Ultimaker S5 Pro printer Metal Expansion Kit. The heart models were digitally reconstructed as if the stenosis was treated, 3D printed and the stents implanted by hand. Five stents were printed and implanted in the models. Diagnoses included: Scimitar syndrome with pulmonary vein baffle stenosis; proximal right pulmonary artery stenosis; left pulmonary artery arising from the aortic arch; left pulmonary artery stenosis; hypoplastic left heart syndrome after Norwood with recoarctation. Stent weight range 1-15g, print time 2-36 minutes, cost $0.13–1.94; these times do not account for the necessary post-processing, which is currently 10 business days. Examples of pre- and post-treated models are shown in the Figure. Utilizing the newest 3D metal printing technology, we were able to generate patient-specific stents and implant them in 3D printed models of CHD. The cost and print time are quite low, however the post-processing time is still quite long. As technology advances further, it may become possible to 3D print patient-specific stents in the cath lab.