Optimization of 3D Print Material for the Recreation of Patient-Specific Temporal Bone Models

2018 ◽  
Vol 127 (5) ◽  
pp. 338-343 ◽  
Author(s):  
Max Haffner ◽  
Austin Quinn ◽  
Tsung-yen Hsieh ◽  
E. Bradley Strong ◽  
Toby Steele

Objective: Identify the 3D printed material that most accurately recreates the visual, tactile, and kinesthetic properties of human temporal bone Subjects and Methods: Fifteen study participants with an average of 3.6 years of postgraduate training and 56.5 temporal bone (TB) procedures participated. Each participant performed a mastoidectomy on human cadaveric TB and five 3D printed TBs of different materials. After drilling each unique material, participants completed surveys to assess each model’s appearance and physical likeness on a Likert scale from 0 to 10 (0 = poorly representative, 10 = completely life-like). The 3D models were acquired by computed tomography (CT) imaging and segmented using 3D Slicer software. Results: Polyethylene terephthalate (PETG) had the highest average survey response for haptic feedback (HF) and appearance, scoring 8.3 (SD = 1.7) and 7.6 (SD = 1.5), respectively. The remaining plastics scored as follows for HF and appearance: polylactic acid (PLA) averaged 7.4 and 7.6, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) 7.1 and 7.2, polycarbonate (PC) 7.4 and 3.9, and nylon 5.6 and 6.7. Conclusion: A PETG 3D printed temporal bone models performed the best for realistic appearance and HF as compared with PLA, ABS, PC, and nylon. The PLA and ABS were reliable alternatives that also performed well with both measures.

Materials ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (4) ◽  
pp. 1021
Author(s):  
Bernhard Dorweiler ◽  
Pia Elisabeth Baqué ◽  
Rayan Chaban ◽  
Ahmed Ghazy ◽  
Oroa Salem

As comparative data on the precision of 3D-printed anatomical models are sparse, the aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of 3D-printed models of vascular anatomy generated by two commonly used printing technologies. Thirty-five 3D models of large (aortic, wall thickness of 2 mm, n = 30) and small (coronary, wall thickness of 1.25 mm, n = 5) vessels printed with fused deposition modeling (FDM) (rigid, n = 20) and PolyJet (flexible, n = 15) technology were subjected to high-resolution CT scans. From the resulting DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) dataset, an STL file was generated and wall thickness as well as surface congruency were compared with the original STL file using dedicated 3D engineering software. The mean wall thickness for the large-scale aortic models was 2.11 µm (+5%), and 1.26 µm (+0.8%) for the coronary models, resulting in an overall mean wall thickness of +5% for all 35 3D models when compared to the original STL file. The mean surface deviation was found to be +120 µm for all models, with +100 µm for the aortic and +180 µm for the coronary 3D models, respectively. Both printing technologies were found to conform with the currently set standards of accuracy (<1 mm), demonstrating that accurate 3D models of large and small vessel anatomy can be generated by both FDM and PolyJet printing technology using rigid and flexible polymers.


2021 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jasamine Coles-Black ◽  
Damien Bolton ◽  
Jason Chuen

Introduction: 3D printed patient-specific vascular phantoms provide superior anatomical insights for simulating complex endovascular procedures. Currently, lack of exposure to the technology poses a barrier for adoption. We offer an accessible, low-cost guide to producing vascular anatomical models using routine CT angiography, open source software packages and a variety of 3D printing technologies.Methods: Although applicable to all vascular territories, we illustrate our methodology using Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAAs) due to the strong interest in this area. CT aortograms acquired as part of routine care were converted to representative patient-specific 3D models, and then printed using a variety of 3D printing technologies to assess their material suitability as aortic phantoms. Depending on the technology, phantoms cost $20–$1,000 and were produced in 12–48 h. This technique was used to generate hollow 3D printed thoracoabdominal aortas visible under fluoroscopy.Results: 3D printed AAA phantoms were a valuable addition to standard CT angiogram reconstructions in the simulation of complex cases, such as short or very angulated necks, or for positioning fenestrations in juxtarenal aneurysms. Hollow flexible models were particularly useful for device selection and in planning of fenestrated EVAR. In addition, these models have demonstrated utility other settings, such as patient education and engagement, and trainee and anatomical education. Further study is required to establish a material with optimal cost, haptic and fluoroscopic fidelity.Conclusion: We share our experiences and methodology for developing inexpensive 3D printed vascular phantoms which despite material limitations, successfully mimic the procedural challenges encountered during live endovascular surgery. As the technology continues to improve, 3D printed vascular phantoms have the potential to disrupt how endovascular procedures are planned and taught.


Symbrachydactyly is a genetical problem occurred to newborn where the newborn experienced underdeveloped or shorten fingers. This condition will limit their normal as even a simple task of holding an item or pushing a button. A device is needed to help them gain a better life. The aim of this project is to fabricate a customized prosthesis hand using 3D printing technology at minimum cost. The proposed prosthetic was not embedded with any electrical component. The patient can only use the wrist to control the prosthetic part which is the prosthetic fingers. The prosthetic hand was also being developed with the patient specific features, which the initial design stage was adapted from a person’s hand geometry using a 3D scanner. Next the model of the prosthesis was analyzed computationally to predict the performance of the product. Different material properties are considered in the analysis to present Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) materials. Then, the prosthesis was fabricated using the 3D printing. The results suggested that PLA material indicated better findings and further be fabricated.


2019 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kay S. Hung ◽  
Michael J. Paulsen ◽  
Hanjay Wang ◽  
Camille Hironaka ◽  
Y. Joseph Woo

In recent years, advances in medical imaging and three-dimensional (3D) additive manufacturing techniques have increased the use of 3D-printed anatomical models for surgical planning, device design and testing, customization of prostheses, and medical education. Using 3D-printing technology, we generated patient-specific models of mitral valves from their pre-operative cardiac imaging data and utilized these custom models to educate patients about their anatomy, disease, and treatment. Clinical 3D transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography images were acquired from patients referred for mitral valve repair surgery and segmented using 3D modeling software. Patient-specific mitral valves were 3D-printed using a flexible polymer material to mimic the precise geometry and tissue texture of the relevant anatomy. 3D models were presented to patients at their pre-operative clinic visit and patient education was performed using either the 3D model or the standard anatomic illustrations. Afterward, patients completed questionnaires assessing knowledge and satisfaction. Responses were calculated based on a 1–5 Likert scale and analyzed using a nonparametric Mann–Whitney test. Twelve patients were presented with a patient-specific 3D-printed mitral valve model in addition to standard education materials and twelve patients were presented with only standard educational materials. The mean survey scores were 64.2 (±1.7) and 60.1 (±5.9), respectively (p = 0.008). The use of patient-specific anatomical models positively impacts patient education and satisfaction, and is a feasible method to open new opportunities in precision medicine.


2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Matteo Meglioli ◽  
Adrien Naveau ◽  
Guido Maria Macaluso ◽  
Sylvain Catros

Abstract Aim This systematic review aimed to evaluate the use of three-dimensional (3D) printed bone models for training, simulating and/or planning interventions in oral and cranio-maxillofacial surgery. Materials and methods A systematic search was conducted using PubMed® and SCOPUS® databases, up to March 10, 2019, by following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocol. Study selection, quality assessment (modified Critical Appraisal Skills Program tool) and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers. All original full papers written in English/French/Italian and dealing with the fabrication of 3D printed models of head bone structures, designed from 3D radiological data were included. Multiple parameters and data were investigated, such as author’s purpose, data acquisition systems, printing technologies and materials, accuracy, haptic feedback, variations in treatment time, differences in clinical outcomes, costs, production time and cost-effectiveness. Results Among the 1157 retrieved abstracts, only 69 met the inclusion criteria. 3D printed bone models were mainly used as training or simulation models for tumor removal, or bone reconstruction. Material jetting printers showed best performance but the highest cost. Stereolithographic, laser sintering and binder jetting printers allowed to create accurate models with adequate haptic feedback. The cheap fused deposition modeling printers exhibited satisfactory results for creating training models. Conclusion Patient-specific 3D printed models are known to be useful surgical and educational tools. Faced with the large diversity of software, printing technologies and materials, the clinical team should invest in a 3D printer specifically adapted to the final application.


2021 ◽  
Vol 8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael Jiang ◽  
Jasamine Coles-Black ◽  
Gordon Chen ◽  
Matthew Alexander ◽  
Jason Chuen ◽  
...  

Introduction: Surgical planning for complex total hip arthroplasty (THA) often presents a challenge. Definitive plans can be difficult to decide upon, requiring unnecessary equipment to be ordered and a long theatre list booked. We present a pilot study utilising patient-specific 3D printed models as a method of streamlining the pre-operative planning process.Methods: Complex patients presenting for THA were referred to the research team. Patient-specific 3D models were created from routine Computed Tomography (CT) imaging. Simulated surgery was performed to guide prosthesis selection, sizing and the surgical plan.Results: Seven patients were referred for this pilot study, presenting with complex conditions with atypical anatomy. Surgical plans provided by the 3D models were more detailed and accurate when compared to 2D CT and X ray imaging. Streamlined equipment selection was of great benefit, with augments avoided post simulation in three cases. The ability to tackle complex surgical problems outside of the operating theatre also flagged potential complications, while also providing teaching opportunities in a low risk environment.Conclusion: This study demonstrated that 3D printed models can improve the surgical plan and streamline operative logistics. Further studies investigating the optimal 3D printing material and workflow, along with cost-benefit analyses are required before this process is ready for routine use.


F1000Research ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 6 ◽  
pp. 1603
Author(s):  
Jagannadha Avasarala ◽  
Todd Pietila

Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies depict disease of the human brain in 2D but the reconstruction of a patient’s brain stricken with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 3D using 2D images has not been attempted.  Using 3D reconstruction algorithms, we built a 3D printed patient-specific brain model to scale. It is a first of its kind model that depicts the total white matter lesion (WML) load using T2 FLAIR images in an MS patient. The patient’s images in Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format were imported into Mimics inPrint 2.0 (Materialise NV, Leuven, Belgium) a dedicated medical image processing software designed for the purposes of image segmentation and 3D modeling.  The imported axial images were automatically formatted to display coronal and sagittal slices within the software. The imaging data were then segmented into regions and surface rendering was done to achieve 3D virtual printable files of the desired structures of interest. Rendering brain tumor(s) in 3D has been attempted with the specific intent of extending the options available to a surgeon but no study to our knowledge has attempted to quantify brain disease in MS that has, for all practical purposes, no surgical options. The purpose of our study was to demonstrate that 3D depiction of chronic neurological diseases is possible in a printable model while serving a fundamental need for patient education. Medical teaching is moored in 2D graphics and it is time to evolve into 3D models that can be life-like and deliver instant impact.


Author(s):  
Kamaljit Singh Boparai ◽  
Gurpartap Singh ◽  
Rupinder Singh ◽  
Sarabjit Singh

Abstract In this work, 3D printed master patterns of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) thermoplastic material have been used for the preparation of Ni-Cr based functional prototypes as partial dentures (PD). The study started with patient specific three dimensional (3D), CAD data (fetched through scanning). This data was used for preparation of .STL file for printing of master patterns on fused deposition modeling (FDM) setup. The 3D printed master patterns were further wax coated to reduce the surface irregularities (as cost effective post processing technique). The hybrid patterns were subjected to investment casting for the preparation of Ni-Cr based PD. The finally prepared functional prototypes as PD were optimized for dimensional accuracy, surface finish and surface hardness as responses. The results are visualized and supported by photomicrographs and in-vitro analysis.


2021 ◽  
Vol 39 (6_suppl) ◽  
pp. 363-363
Author(s):  
E. Reilly Scott ◽  
Samuel Morano ◽  
Andrea Quinn ◽  
Erica Mann ◽  
Michelle Ho ◽  
...  

363 Background: 3D printing is a growing tool in surgical education due to the ability to visualize organs, tissue, and masses from multiple angles before operating on a patient. Previous studies using highly detailed and expensive 3D models costing between $1,000-250 per model have been shown to enhance patient and trainee comprehension of tumor characteristics, goals of surgery, and planned surgical procedure for partial nephrectomies. In our study we aim to use simpler and less expensive models in a greater range of patients receiving partial nephrectomies to determine the use of 3D models in patient, resident, and fellow education. Methods: 3D models of the effected kidney, mass, renal artery, and renal vein were created using preoperative imaging of undergoing partial nephrectomies at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (TJUH) costing $35 per model. Residents and fellows filled out 3 surveys assessing their surgical plan and their confidence in the chosen plan at 3 time points: 1) Before seeing the model, 2) After seeing the model before surgery, and 3) After surgery. Ten patients filled out 2 surveys about their understanding of the kidney, their disease, the surgery they will undergo, and the risks involved with surgery before and after seeing the model. Results: Based on surveys to assess for surgical plan and confidence given to resident and fellow surgeons before and after seeing the 3D model, confidence significantly increased. Surveys given after surgery assessing anatomic and surgical comprehension found that resident and fellow surgeons rated the helpfulness of the models on their anatomical comprehension 7.6 out of 10 and the help of the models on their surgical confidence 7 out of 10. Patient understanding of their kidney, disease, and surgery significantly increased after seeing the 3D model, but the risks associated with surgery did not significantly increase. The extent that the model helped the patients learn about the kidney, their disease, the surgery, and the risks related to surgery were rated an average of 8.33, 9.67, 9.5, and 8.83 out of 10, respectively. Conclusions: Patient-specific 3D models for partial nephrectomies increase resident and fellow confidence in surgical approach and helped patients learn about their disease and feel comfortable going into surgery. Thus, it is important to continue to explore 3D models as an educational tool for both trainees and patients and potentially include 3D models as part of the standard of care. Further research could continue to explore the utility of 3D models as a pre-operative educational tool for both patients and trainees in other surgical fields.


2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Teresa E. Flaxman ◽  
Carly M. Cooke ◽  
Olivier X. Miguel ◽  
Adnan M. Sheikh ◽  
Sukhbir S. Singh

Abstract Background Patient specific three-dimensional (3D) models can be derived from two-dimensional medical images, such as magnetic resonance (MR) images. 3D models have been shown to improve anatomical comprehension by providing more accurate assessments of anatomical volumes and better perspectives of structural orientations relative to adjacent structures. The clinical benefit of using patient specific 3D printed models have been highlighted in the fields of orthopaedics, cardiothoracics, and neurosurgery for the purpose of pre-surgical planning. However, reports on the clinical use of 3D printed models in the field of gynecology are limited. Main text This article aims to provide a brief overview of the principles of 3D printing and the steps required to derive patient-specific, anatomically accurate 3D printed models of gynecologic anatomy from MR images. Examples of 3D printed models for uterine fibroids and endometriosis are presented as well as a discussion on the barriers to clinical uptake and the future directions for 3D printing in the field of gynecological surgery. Conclusion Successful gynecologic surgery requires a thorough understanding of the patient’s anatomy and burden of disease. Future use of patient specific 3D printed models is encouraged so the clinical benefit can be better understood and evidence to support their use in standard of care can be provided.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document