Method for Fabricating Transparent Patient-Specific Vocal Tract Replicas

2021 ◽  
pp. 105566562110531
Author(s):  
Michael Rollins ◽  
Liran Oren
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Vocal Tract ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Transparent Material ◽  
Exact Geometry ◽  
Accessible Method ◽  
Cost Of Production

Introduction Transparent, patient-specific vocal tract replicas are helpful in research and educational endeavors but challenging to procure. An accessible method for fabricating these models, improving on previously suggested processes, would make them more widely available. Method Detailed instructions for fabricating a transparent, patient-specific vocal tract model were addressed. The broad steps were (1) digitally reconstructing (patient-specific) vocal tract geometry, (2) producing a vocal tract mold (using methods such as three-dimensional [3D] printing), and (3) casting transparent material (such as silicone) around the vocal tract mold and removing the mold. The cavities remaining within the cast represented the exact geometry of the vocal tract. Discussion A combination of 3D printing and silicone casting can produce useful vocal tract replicas. Several simple changes to previous methods can improve consistency and reduce the labor and cost of production. Limitations and potential modifications to expand the applications of this method are discussed.

Investigation of three-dimensional printing materials for printing aorta model replicating Type B aortic dissection

2021 ◽  
Vol 17 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chia-An Wu ◽  
Andrew Squelch ◽  
Zhonghua Sun
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Aortic Dissection ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Ct Images ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Type B ◽  
Type B Aortic Dissection ◽  
Ct Attenuation ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
3D Printed

Aim: To determine a printing material that has both elastic property and radiology equivalence close to real aorta for simulation of endovascular stent graft repair of aortic dissection. Background: With the rapid development of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, a patient-specific 3D printed model is able to help surgeons to make better treatment plan for Type B aortic dissection patients. However, the radiological properties of most 3D printing materials have not been well characterized. This study aims to investigate the appropriate materials for printing human aorta with mechanical and radiological properties similar to the real aortic computed tomography (CT) attenuation. Objective: Quantitative assessment of CT attenuation of different materials used in 3D printed models of aortic dissection for developing patient-specific 3D printed aorta models to simulate type B aortic dissection. Method: A 25-mm length of aorta model was segmented from a patient’s image dataset with diagnosis of type B aortic dissection. Four different elastic commercial 3D printing materials, namely Agilus A40 and A50, Visijet CE-NT A30 and A70 were selected and printed with different hardness. Totally four models were printed out and conducted CT scanned twice on a 192-slice CT scanner using the standard aortic CT angiography protocol, with and without contrast inside the lumen.Five reference points with region of interest (ROI) of 1.77 mm2 were selected at the aortic wall and intimal flap and their Hounsfield units (HU) were measured and compared with the CT attenuation of original CT images. The comparison between the patient’s aorta and models was performed through a paired-sample t-test to determine if there is any significant difference. Result: The mean CT attenuation of aortic wall of the original CT images was 80.7 HU. Analysis of images without using contrast medium showed that the material of Agilus A50 produced the mean CT attenuation of 82.6 HU, which is similar to that of original CT images. The CT attenuation measured at images acquired with other three materials was significantly lower than that of original images (p<0.05). After adding contrast medium, Visijet CE-NT A30 had an average CT attenuation of 90.6 HU, which is close to that of the original images with statistically significant difference (p>0.05). In contrast, the CT attenuation measured at images acquired with other three materials (Agilus A40, A50 and Visiject CE-NT A70) was 129 HU, 135 HU and 129.6 HU, respectively, which is significantly higher than that of original CT images (p<0.05). Conclusion: Both Visijet CE-NT and Agilus have tensile strength and elongation close to real patient’s tissue properties producing similar CT attenuation. Visijet CE-NT A30 is considered the appropriate material for printing aorta to simulate contrast-enhanced CT imaging of type B aortic dissection. Due to lack of body phantom in the experiments, further research with simulation of realistic anatomical body environment should be conducted.

Digital Design and 3D Printing of Aortic Arch Reconstruction in HLHS for Surgical Simulation and Training

2018 ◽  
Vol 9 (4) ◽  
pp. 454-458 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah A. Chen ◽  
Chin Siang Ong ◽  
Nagina Malguria ◽  
Luca A. Vricella ◽  
Juan R. Garcia ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Aortic Arch ◽  
Surgical Simulation ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
3D Models ◽  
Digital Design ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Aortic Arch Reconstruction ◽  
Arch Reconstruction ◽  
And Training

Purpose: Patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) present a diverse spectrum of aortic arch morphology. Suboptimal geometry of the reconstructed aortic arch may result from inappropriate size and shape of an implanted patch and may be associated with poor outcomes. Meanwhile, advances in diagnostic imaging, computer-aided design, and three-dimensional (3D) printing technology have enabled the creation of 3D models. The purpose of this study is to create a surgical simulation and training model for aortic arch reconstruction. Description: Specialized segmentation software was used to isolate aortic arch anatomy from HLHS computed tomography scan images to create digital 3D models. Three-dimensional modeling software was used to modify the exported segmented models and digitally design printable customized patches that were optimally sized for arch reconstruction. Evaluation: Life-sized models of HLHS aortic arch anatomy and a digitally derived customized patch were 3D printed to allow simulation of surgical suturing and reconstruction. The patient-specific customized patch was successfully used for surgical simulation. Conclusions: Feasibility of digital design and 3D printing of patient-specific patches for aortic arch reconstruction has been demonstrated. The technology facilitates surgical simulation. Surgical training that leads to an understanding of optimal aortic patch geometry is one element that may potentially influence outcomes for patients with HLHS.

Methodology for Hemodynamic Assessment of a Three-Dimensional Printed Patient-Specific Vascular Test Device

2019 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gavin A. D'Souza ◽  
Michael D. Taylor ◽  
Rupak K. Banerjee
Keyword(s):  
Pressure Drop ◽  
3D Printing ◽  
Medical Devices ◽  
Velocity Ratio ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Test Device ◽  
Dimensionless Pressure ◽  
Hemodynamic Assessment ◽  
Stenosis Severity

Assessing hemodynamics in vasculature is important for the development of cardiovascular diagnostic parameters and evaluation of medical devices. Benchtop experiments are a safe and comprehensive preclinical method for testing new diagnostic endpoints and devices within a controlled environment. Recent advances in three-dimensional (3D) printing have enhanced benchtop tests by allowing generation of patient-specific and pathophysiologic conditions. We used 3D printing, coupled with image processing and computer-aided design (CAD), to develop a patient-specific vascular test device from clinical data. The proximal pulmonary artery (PA) tree including the main, left, and right pulmonary arteries, with a stenosis within the left PA was selected as a representative anatomy for developing the vascular test device. Three test devices representing clinically relevant stenosis severities, 90%, 80%, and 70% area stenosis, were evaluated at different cardiac outputs (COs). A mock circulatory loop (MCL) generating pathophysiologic pulmonary pressure and flow was used to evaluate the hemodynamics within the devices. The dimensionless pressure drop–velocity ratio characteristic curves for the three stenosis severities were obtained. At a fixed CO, the dimensionless pressure drop increased nonlinearly with an increase in (a) the velocity ratio for a fixed stenosis severity and (b) the stenosis severity at a specific velocity ratio. The dimensionless pressure drop observed in vivo was similar (within 1%) to that measured in moderate area stenosis of 70% because both flows were viscous dominated. The hemodynamics of the 3D printed test device can be used for evaluating diagnostic endpoints and medical devices in a preclinical setting under realistic conditions.

scholarly journals Three-dimensional Printing Versus Conventional Machining in the Creation of a Meatal Urethral Dilator: a Cost and Mechanical Strength Analysis

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael Yue-Cheng Chen ◽  
Jacob Skewes ◽  
Ryan Daley ◽  
Maria Ann Woodruff ◽  
Nicholas John Rukin
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Strength Analysis ◽  
Fused Deposition Modelling ◽  
3D Printer ◽  
Current Time ◽  
Fused Deposition ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
Conventional Machining

Abstract BackgroundThree-dimensional (3D) printing is a promising technology but the limitations are often poorly understood. We compare different 3D printingmethods with conventional machining techniques in manufacturing meatal urethral dilators which were recently removed from the Australian market. MethodsA prototype dilator was 3D printed vertically orientated on a low cost fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D printer in polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). It was also 3D printed horizontally orientated in ABS on a high-end FDM 3D printer with soluble support material, as well as on a SLS 3D printer in medical nylon. The dilator was also machined in stainless steel using a lathe. All dilators were tested mechanically in a custom rig by hanging calibrated weights from the handle until the dilator snapped. ResultsThe horizontally printed ABS dilator experienced failure at a greater load than the vertically printed PLA and ABS dilators respectively (503g vs 283g vs 163g, p < 0.001). The SLS nylon dilator and machined steel dilator did not fail. The steel dilator is most expensive with a quantity of five at 98 USD each, but this decreases to 30 USD each for a quantity of 1000. In contrast, the cost for the SLS dilator is 33 USD each for five and 27 USD each for 1000. ConclusionsAt the current time 3D printing is not a replacement for conventional manufacturing. 3D printing is best used for patient-specific parts, prototyping or manufacturing complex parts that have additional functionality that cannot otherwise beachieved.

scholarly journals Patient-specific 3D-Printed Splint for Mallet Finger Injury

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ali Zolfagharian ◽  
Timothy M Gregory ◽  
Mahdi Bodaghi ◽  
Saleh Gharaie ◽  
Pearse Fay
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Heat Dissipation ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Mallet Finger ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Finger Injury ◽  
Potential Efficacy ◽  
Specific Complex

 Despite the frequency of mallet finger injuries, treatment options can often be costly, time-consuming, and ill-fitted. Three-dimensional (3D) printing allows for the production of highly customized and inexpensive splints, which suggests potential efficacy in the prescription of casts for musculoskeletal injuries. This study explores how the use of engineering concepts such as 3D printing and topology optimization (TO) can improve outcomes for patients. 3D printing enables the direct fabrication of the patient-specific complex shapes while utilizing finite element analysis and TO in the design of the splint allowed for the most efficient distribution of material to achieve mechanical requirements while reducing the amount of material used. The reduction in used material leads to significant improvements in weight reduction and heat dissipation, which would improve breathability and less sweating for the patient, greatly increasing comfort for the duration of their recovery.

Living the heart in three dimensions: applications of 3D printing in CHD

2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (06) ◽  
pp. 733-743 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mari Nieves Velasco Forte ◽  
Tarique Hussain ◽  
Arno Roest ◽  
Gorka Gomez ◽  
Monique Jongbloed ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Heart Surgery ◽  
Wide Spectrum ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Structural Heart Disease ◽  
Medical Personnel ◽  
Three Dimensions ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
3D Printed

AbstractAdvances in biomedical engineering have led to three-dimensional (3D)-printed models being used for a broad range of different applications. Teaching medical personnel, communicating with patients and relatives, planning complex heart surgery, or designing new techniques for repair of CHD via cardiac catheterisation are now options available using patient-specific 3D-printed models. The management of CHD can be challenging owing to the wide spectrum of morphological conditions and the differences between patients. Direct visualisation and manipulation of the patients’ individual anatomy has opened new horizons in personalised treatment, providing the possibility of performing the whole procedure in vitro beforehand, thus anticipating complications and possible outcomes. In this review, we discuss the workflow to implement 3D printing in clinical practice, the imaging modalities used for anatomical segmentation, the applications of this emerging technique in patients with structural heart disease, and its limitations and future directions.

scholarly journals Three-dimensional printing in adult cardiovascular medicine for surgical and transcatheter procedural planning, teaching and technological innovation

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Enrico Ferrari ◽  
Michele Gallo ◽  
Changtian Wang ◽  
Lei Zhang ◽  
Maurizio Taramasso ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Cardiac Imaging ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
3D Models ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Digital Information ◽  
Widespread Application ◽  
Mitral Valves ◽  
Materials Used ◽  
Procedural Planning

Abstract Three-dimensional (3D)-printing technologies in cardiovascular surgery have provided a new way to tailor surgical and percutaneous treatments. Digital information from standard cardiac imaging is integrated into physical 3D models for an accurate spatial visualization of anatomical details. We reviewed the available literature and analysed the different printing technologies, the required procedural steps for 3D prototyping, the used cardiac imaging, the available materials and the clinical implications. We have highlighted different materials used to replicate aortic and mitral valves, vessels and myocardial properties. 3D printing allows a heuristic approach to investigate complex cardiovascular diseases, and it is a unique patient-specific technology providing enhanced understanding and tactile representation of cardiovascular anatomies for the procedural planning and decision-making process. 3D printing may also be used for medical education and surgical/transcatheter training. Communication between doctors and patients can also benefit from 3D models by improving the patient understanding of pathologies. Furthermore, medical device development and testing can be performed with rapid 3D prototyping. Additionally, widespread application of 3D printing in the cardiovascular field combined with tissue engineering will pave the way to 3D-bioprinted tissues for regenerative medicinal applications and 3D-printed organs.

scholarly journals The Role of 3D Printing in Medical Applications: A State of the Art

2019 ◽  
Vol 2019 ◽  
pp. 1-10 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anna Aimar ◽  
Augusto Palermo ◽  
Bernardo Innocenti
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Digital Information ◽  
Medical Implants ◽  
Medical Field ◽  
3D Printed ◽  
Pipe Dream ◽  
Manufacturing Technologies

Three-dimensional (3D) printing refers to a number of manufacturing technologies that generate a physical model from digital information. Medical 3D printing was once an ambitious pipe dream. However, time and investment made it real. Nowadays, the 3D printing technology represents a big opportunity to help pharmaceutical and medical companies to create more specific drugs, enabling a rapid production of medical implants, and changing the way that doctors and surgeons plan procedures. Patient-specific 3D-printed anatomical models are becoming increasingly useful tools in today’s practice of precision medicine and for personalized treatments. In the future, 3D-printed implantable organs will probably be available, reducing the waiting lists and increasing the number of lives saved. Additive manufacturing for healthcare is still very much a work in progress, but it is already applied in many different ways in medical field that, already reeling under immense pressure with regards to optimal performance and reduced costs, will stand to gain unprecedented benefits from this good-as-gold technology. The goal of this analysis is to demonstrate by a deep research of the 3D-printing applications in medical field the usefulness and drawbacks and how powerful technology it is.

3D Printing in Cardiovascular Disease: Current Applications and Future Perspectives

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emanuele Verghi ◽  
Vincenzo Catanese ◽  
Antonio Nenna ◽  
Nunzio Mastroianni ◽  
Mario Lusini ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
3D Printing ◽  
Perfect Match ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Prosthetic Graft ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Future Perspectives ◽  
Patient Specific Implants ◽  
Life Saving ◽  
Traditional Pattern

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is emerging as an innovative tool for a tailored approach to endovascular or open procedures. The efforts of different specialists and data analysis can be used to fabricate patient-specific implants, which might have significant impact even in life-saving procedures such as aortic dissections or aortic arch aneurysm. 3D printing is gradually changing the traditional pattern of diagnosis and treatment. This innovative approach allows a perfect match between the patient's anatomy and the prosthetic graft, ideally resulting in better hemodynamics and improved long-term patency related to reduced turbulent flow. Future applications of 3D printing in the cardiovascular field combined with tissue engineering will enhance the therapeutic features of bioprinted tissues and scaffolds for regenerative medicine. This review will summarize the clinical significance of 3D printing in cardiovascular disease, exploring current applications, translational outlooks and future perspectives.

scholarly journals Three-Dimensional Printing Constructs Based on the Chitosan for Tissue Regeneration: State of the Art, Developing Directions and Prospect Trends

Materials ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (11) ◽  
pp. 2663 ◽  
Author(s):  
Farnoosh Pahlevanzadeh ◽  
Rahmatollah Emadi ◽  
Ali Valiani ◽  
Mahshid Kharaziha ◽  
S. Ali Poursamar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
3D Printing ◽  
Biomedical Applications ◽  
Three Dimensional ◽  
Historical Background ◽  
Patient Specific ◽  
Technical Problems ◽  
Precise Adjustment ◽  
Developing Directions ◽  
Traditional Manufacturing ◽  
Printing Techniques

Chitosan (CS) has gained particular attention in biomedical applications due to its biocompatibility, antibacterial feature, and biodegradability. Hence, many studies have focused on the manufacturing of CS films, scaffolds, particulate, and inks via different production methods. Nowadays, with the possibility of the precise adjustment of porosity size and shape, fiber size, suitable interconnectivity of pores, and creation of patient-specific constructs, 3D printing has overcome the limitations of many traditional manufacturing methods. Therefore, the fabrication of 3D printed CS scaffolds can lead to promising advances in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. A review of additive manufacturing types, CS-based printed constructs, their usages as biomaterials, advantages, and drawbacks can open doors to optimize CS-based constructions for biomedical applications. The latest technological issues and upcoming capabilities of 3D printing with CS-based biopolymers for different applications are also discussed. This review article will act as a roadmap aiming to investigate chitosan as a new feedstock concerning various 3D printing approaches which may be employed in biomedical fields. In fact, the combination of 3D printing and CS-based biopolymers is extremely appealing particularly with regard to certain clinical purposes. Complications of 3D printing coupled with the challenges associated with materials should be recognized to help make this method feasible for wider clinical requirements. This strategy is currently gaining substantial attention in terms of several industrial biomedical products. In this review, the key 3D printing approaches along with revealing historical background are initially presented, and ultimately, the applications of different 3D printing techniques for fabricating chitosan constructs will be discussed. The recognition of essential complications and technical problems related to numerous 3D printing techniques and CS-based biopolymer choices according to clinical requirements is crucial. A comprehensive investigation will be required to encounter those challenges and to completely understand the possibilities of 3D printing in the foreseeable future.

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