Abstract
Patient-specific three-dimensional (3D) printed models have been increasingly used in cardiology and cardiac surgery, in particular, showing great value in the domain of congenital heart disease (CHD). CHD is characterized by complex cardiac anomalies with disease variations between individuals; thus, it is difficult to obtain comprehensive spatial conceptualization of the cardiac structures based on the current imaging visualizations. 3D printed models derived from patient’s cardiac imaging data overcome this limitation by creating personalized 3D heart models, which not only improve spatial visualization, but also assist preoperative planning and simulation of cardiac procedures, serve as a useful tool in medical education and training, and improve doctor–patient communication. This review article provides an overall view of the clinical applications and usefulness of 3D printed models in CHD. Current limitations and future research directions of 3D printed heart models are highlighted.
Highlights
Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and echocardiography represent commonly used imaging modalities in the diagnostic assessment of congenital heart disease (CHD)
Three main applications of 3D printed heart models have been discussed in this review, including medical education and training, presurgical planning and simulation, and doctor–patient communication
Personalized 3D printed models of CHD are changing the current practice in the diagnostic management of patients with CHD. 3D printed models have demonstrated advantages over traditional image visualizations in the assessment of complex cardiac structures as observers are able to appreciate various CHD conditions with more confidence
Summary
Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and echocardiography represent commonly used imaging modalities in the diagnostic assessment of congenital heart disease (CHD). These imaging techniques allow for generation of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) visualizations, which play an important role in understanding the complexity of CHD and assisting pre-procedural planning of cardiac procedures. 3D printing overcomes this limitation by creating patient-specific or personalized medical models [1,2,3]. SSccaatttteerrpplloott sshhoowwiinngg mmeeaassuurreemmeennttss ooff 33DD pprriinntteedd mmooddeell iinn ccoommppaarriissoonn wwiitthh tthhoossee ffrroomm ccaarrddiiaacc ccoommppuutteedd ttoommooggrraapphhyy ((CCTT)) iimmaaggeess aatt 1100aannaattoommiiccaallloloccaattiioonnss. 3D printed models significantly improved residents’ satisfaction and self-efficiency scores when compared to learning from 2D images [22] (Figure 5)
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.
