Methods for verification of 3D printed anatomic model accuracy using cardiac models as an example

Abstract

BackgroundMedical 3D printing has brought the manufacturing world closer to the patient’s bedside than ever before. This requires hospitals and their personnel to update their quality assurance program to more appropriately accommodate the 3D printing fabrication process and the challenges that come along with it.ResultsIn this paper, we explored different methods for verifying the accuracy of a 3D printed anatomical model. Methods included physical measurements, digital photographic measurements, surface scanning, photogrammetry, and computed tomography (CT) scans. The details of each verification method, as well as their benefits and challenges, are discussed.ConclusionThere are multiple methods for model verification, each with benefits and drawbacks. The choice of which method to adopt into a quality assurance program is multifactorial and will depend on the type of 3D printed models being created, the training of personnel, and what resources are available within a 3D printed laboratory.

An investigation into the effect of changing the computed tomography slice reconstruction interval on the spatial replication accuracy of three‐dimensional printed anatomical models constructed by fused deposition modelling

“…The use of three‐dimensional (3D) printing in medicine is expanding rapidly. Scan data can be printed by 3D printers to create replicas of anatomy that can be held, manipulated, studied and utilised in surgical planning, medical training and patient education . Previously, clinical training and education of health practitioners has relied on the use of human cadavers .…”

“…However, the use of models provides realistic and low‐cost alternatives, particularly where financial limitations or cultural considerations impede use . Now, clinicians can produce 3D models from patient scan data to improve the diagnosis, visualisation and management of pathology, whilst surgeons may plan and rehearse difficult surgical approaches prior to performing intraoperative surgery . Clinicians can create guides that follow a patient's unique anatomy or fabricate lattice structures on medical implants to promote osseointegration and reduce risk of rejection .…”

“…Scan data can be printed by 3D printers to create replicas of anatomy that can be held, manipulated, studied and utilised in surgical planning, medical training and patient education. [1][2][3][4][5] Previously, clinical training and education of health practitioners has relied on the use of human cadavers. 6 Difficulties reported from this approach include the lack of patientspecific pathological representation and inconsistencies within unique human anatomy.…”

“…6 Now, clinicians can produce 3D models from patient scan data to improve the diagnosis, visualisation and management of pathology, whilst surgeons may plan and rehearse difficult surgical approaches prior to performing intraoperative surgery. 1,3,4,7 Clinicians can create guides that follow a patient's unique anatomy or fabricate lattice structures on medical implants to promote osseointegration and reduce risk of rejection. 1,3,5,7 Models can be used to educate patients and their families about an upcoming surgery or to communicate the surgical steps to a clinical team.…”

“…1,3,4,7 Clinicians can create guides that follow a patient's unique anatomy or fabricate lattice structures on medical implants to promote osseointegration and reduce risk of rejection. 1,3,5,7 Models can be used to educate patients and their families about an upcoming surgery or to communicate the surgical steps to a clinical team. 5 Finally, this technology can be utilised to create tissue-equivalent anthropomorphic phantoms to refine computed tomography (CT) scan protocols.…”