Preoperative Three-Dimensional Model of Aortic Arch Anomalies: Is It a Tool for the Surgeon?

Objectives: Medical images are difficult to interpret and do not aid parental understanding. Three-dimensional (3D) models are more immediate and in advance can help surgery. To assess the communication potential and clinical benefit of three-dimensional (3D) patient-specific models of Aortic arch anomalies.

Methods: We present a questionnaire-based study of 3D patient-specific models in preoperative planning of 12 Patients with congenital aortic arch anomalies. Questionnaires were administered to the parents after the counseling with questions regarding the usefulness of the 3D printing in understanding the anatomy, surgery, risk and complication. An additional questionnaire was administered to the surgeon with questions regarding anatomic accuracy of the 3D-model, time between skin incision and aortic arch clamping. Rating (1–10) for the liking of the 3D model, its usefulness and the clarity of the explanation received were recorded, as well as rating (1–10) of the parental understanding.

Result: All children after surgery were controlled and showed gut surgical results. All parents define the 3D model very useful and helpful in understanding the anatomy and surgical technique, as well as surgeon, nurses and colleague.

Conclusion: In our study, the use of 3D models of the aortic arch malformations for surgical repair has several advantages. We found an accuracy of 100% between the model and the intraoperative anatomy. Parents, colleague and nurses found the 3D model an useful tool to understand the anatomy and surgery. The 3D printing can enhance better communication between cardiology surgeon and parents and a better trust based relationship with the handling doctors. Furthermore allowed team discussion about therapeutic options and can anticipate any pitfalls for a complex, high-risk procedure.

No conflict of interest has been declared by the author(s).

Publication History

Article published online:
19 February 2021