CT 3D Printing Technology to Be Used for Neurosurgical Planning

Three-dimensional (3D) models, generated by combining a patient's computed tomography (CT) imaging scans and 3D printing technology, are proving useful in neurosurgical planning.

3D printing technology is a fast and cost-effective way to build 3D models for neurosurgical planning. Radiologists are able to convert ultra-high-resolution CT patient images into 3D solid models using a 3D color printer typically used in architecture, engineering, and construction.

An advantage of 3D models is that they identify defects that 2D images do not, which helps radiologists view a clearer impression of the image. With increasing frequency, surgeons, other physicians, and also patients, request assistance from radiologists to identify complex morphologies demonstrated on imaging studies.

"We are applying a technique that has many uses in other industries to aid surgeons in planning procedures on complicated anatomy and pathology as well as help them communicate with patients and their families. Tripler [US Army Medical Center] doctors were sending data from Hawaii to mainland US to have models made at great expense and considerable time. Other radiologists may find these resources in an architect's office or at a factory using 3D printing to make prototypes for just about anything you can fit in a shoebox,” said Michelle Yoshida, MD, one of the authors of the exhibit.

The exhibit was presented in conjunction with the 2011 American Roentgen Ray Society's annual meeting April 30, 2011, in Chicago (IL, USA). The exhibit was a collaborative effort between the department of radiology at Tripler Army Medical Center (Honolulu, HI, USA) and the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command/Central Identification Laboratory, at the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (HI, USA).

Related Links:
Tripler Army Medical Center
Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command/Central Identification Laboratory, at the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam