Patient-Specific 3D-Printed Low-Cost Models in Medical Education and Clinical Practice

Abstract

3D printing has been increasingly used for medical applications with studies reporting its value, ranging from medical education to pre-surgical planning and simulation, assisting doctor–patient communication or communication with clinicians, and the development of optimal computed tomography (CT) imaging protocols. This article presents our experience of utilising a 3D-printing facility to print a range of patient-specific low-cost models for medical applications. These models include personalized models in cardiovascular disease (from congenital heart disease to aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection and coronary artery disease) and tumours (lung cancer, pancreatic cancer and biliary disease) based on CT data. Furthermore, we designed and developed novel 3D-printed models, including a 3D-printed breast model for the simulation of breast cancer magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and calcified coronary plaques for the simulation of extensive calcifications in the coronary arteries. Most of these 3D-printed models were scanned with CT (except for the breast model which was scanned using MRI) for investigation of their educational and clinical value, with promising results achieved. The models were confirmed to be highly accurate in replicating both anatomy and pathology in different body regions with affordable costs. Our experience of producing low-cost and affordable 3D-printed models highlights the feasibility of utilizing 3D-printing technology in medical education and clinical practice.

Use of modern three‐dimensional imaging models to guide surgical planning for local control of pediatric extracranial solid tumors

“…Finally, we believe that 3D models can be a useful tool for patient, family, and even trainee education 16 . In the present series, each model was incorporated into preoperative discussions with patients and their families to display the extent of disease, explain relevant anatomy and terminology, and demonstrate possible outcomes of therapy.…”

Role of Three-Dimensional Printing in Treatment Planning for Orthognathic Surgery: A Systematic Review

“…All surgical subspecialties have been employing 3D-printed models for presurgical planning. These models allow accurate planning and simulation of surgical procedures, incisions, and placement and sizing of required hardware so there is no need to perform these steps intraoperatively [ 40 ]. Moreover, accurate and realistic models can be produced that provide interpretable visual guides [ 41 ].…”

3D Printing for Cancer Diagnosis: What Unique Advantages Are Gained?

“…Cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells within the body , Early detection plays a crucial role in improving patient outcomes and survival rates. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as imaging techniques (e.g., X-ray, computed tomography, , magnetic resonance imaging , ) and biopsy, have been instrumental in cancer diagnosis. However, these methods often provide limited information about the molecular and genetic characteristics of tumors, which are crucial for personalized treatment decisions. − …”