3D-Printed Patient-Specific Models of the Aortic Arch for Advanced Visualization of Complex Neurointerventional Cases.

BACKGROUND

Cerebrovascular disease is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, and endovascular therapies have become a mainstay of treatment for ischemic stroke. However, tortuous anatomy, particularly of the aortic arch, presents formidable treatment challenges by impeding access to intracranial circulation and thus affecting clinical outcomes.

METHODS

To better understand the challenges of tortuous anatomy, we fabricated 3D-printed models of the aortic arch and major branch vessels based on the imaging of 4 patients.

RESULTS

These patient-specific models were realistic representations of the intricate vascular pathways and provided enhanced visualization of the complex vascular structures. The measured diameters of the 3D-fabricated models closely matched the values reported in the literature, confirming the physical accuracy of the models. Creating an individual anatomic model required an average of 4 hours of digital processing and 13.71 hours of 3D printing, with a materials cost of approximately $17.31.

CONCLUSION

3D-printed patient-specific models used for neurointerventional training and preprocedural planning are a valuable tool for managing complex cerebrovascular anatomy. The advanced visualization provided by these models may enhance preparedness and potentially improve ischemic stroke treatment outcomes.