Advantages of Nail Surgical Procedures Using a 3D Biomodel.

Introduction: 3D biomodels represent a cutting-edge advancement in medical imaging technology. The incorporation of 3D technologies in dermatology through the acquisition of onychological images, 3D reconstruction, and development of customized equipment to assist in surgeries demonstrated reduction in operating times and improved surgical outcomes. Additionally, the use of 3D printing in surgical simulation provided a safe environment for training and education. This article explores the application of 3D biomodels in dermatology, focusing on three clinical cases involving nail tumors. Case Presentation: In case 1, a glomus tumor was visualized in 3D, guiding the creation of a personalized surgical device. The minimally invasive surgery, facilitated by the biomodel, resulted in successful tumor removal. Case 2, featuring a subungual keratoacanthoma, utilized 3D biomodels for conservative surgery planning, anatomical comprehension, and patient communication. Case 3 involved a longitudinal groove, where biomodels aided in precise lesion localization and surgical planning. Conclusion: The integration of virtual and physical anatomical biomodels proves valuable in surgical dermatology, contributing to enhanced treatment quality, patient safety, and medical education.

From medical imaging to 3D printed anatomical models: a low-cost, affordable 3D printing approach.

OBJECTIVE: To share our experience in creating precise anatomical models using available open-source software. METHODS: An affordable method is presented, where from a DICOM format of a computed tomography, a segmentation of the region of interest is achieved. The image is then processed for surface improvement and the DICOM format is converted to STL. Error correction is achieved and the model is optimized to be printed by stereolithography with a desktop 3D printer. RESULTS: Precise measurements of the dimensions of the DICOM file (CT), the STL file, and the printed model (3D) were carried out. For the C6 vertebra, the dimensions of the horizontal axis were 55.3 mm (CT), 55.337 mm (STL), and 55.3183 mm (3D). The dimensions of the vertebral body were 14.2 mm (CT), 14.551 mm (STL), and 14.8159 mm (3D). The length of the spinous process was 18.2 mm (CT), 18.283 mm (STL), and 18.2266 mm (3D), while its width was 8.5 mm (CT), 8.3644 mm (STL), and 8.3226 mm (3D). For the C7 vertebra, the dimensions of the horizontal axis were 58.6 mm (CT), 58.739 mm (STL), and 58.7144 mm (3D). The dimensions of the vertebral body were 14 mm (CT), 14.0255 mm (STL), and 14.2312 mm (3D). The length of the spinous process was 18.7 mm (CT), 18.79 mm (STL), and 18.6458 mm (3D), and its width was 8.9 mm (CT), 8.988 mm (STL), and 8.9760 mm (3D). CONCLUSION: The printing of a 3D model of bone tissue using this algorithm is a viable, useful option with high precision.

OBJETIVO: Compartir nuestra experiencia para crear modelos anatómicos precisos utilizando software con licencia abierta disponibles. MÉTODOS: Se presenta un método asequible, en donde a partir de un formato DICOM de una tomografía computarizada se logra una segmentación de la región de interés. Posteriormente se procesa la imagen para una mejora de superficie y se realiza la conversión de formato DICOM a STL. Se logra la corrección de errores y se optimiza el modelo para luego ser impreso por medio de estereolitografía con una impresora 3D de escritorio. RESULTADOS: Se efectuaron mediciones precisas de las dimensiones del archivo DICOM (TC), del archivo STL y del modelo impreso (3D). Para la vértebra C6, las dimensiones del eje horizontal fueron 55.3 mm (TC), 55.337 mm (STL) y 55.3183 mm (3D). Las dimensiones del cuerpo vertebral fueron 14.2 mm (TC), 14.551 mm (STL) y 14.8159 mm (3D). La longitud de la apófisis espinosa fue de 18.2 mm (TC), 18.283 mm (STL) y 18.2266 mm (3D), mientras que su ancho fue de 8.5 mm (TC), 8.3644 mm (STL) y 8.3226 mm (3D). Para la vértebra C7, las dimensiones del eje horizontal fueron 58.6 mm (TC), 58.739 mm (STL) y 58.7144 mm (3D). Las dimensiones del cuerpo vertebral fueron 14 mm (TC), 14.0255 mm (STL) y 14.2312 mm (3D). La longitud de la apófisis espinosa fue de 18.7 mm (TC), 18.79 mm (STL) y 18.6458 mm (3D), y su ancho fue de 8.9 mm (TC), 8.988 mm (STL) y 8.9760 mm (3D). CONCLUSIÓN: La impresión de un modelo en 3D de tejido óseo mediante este algoritmo resulta una opción viable, útil y con una alta precisión.

Expansion of national surgical, obstetric, and anaesthesia plans in Latin America: can Brazil be next?

On the sidelines of the 75th Session of the Regional Committee of the World Health Organization for the Americas, the Republic of Ecuador hosted an event to expand on National Surgical, Obstetric, and Anaesthesia Plans (NSOAPs). NSOAPs are policy frameworks that offer governments a pathway to incorporate surgical planning into their overall health strategies. In Latin America, Ecuador became the first country to lead the development of an NSOAP and is fostering regional efforts for other Latin American countries to have sustainable surgical strengthening plans. Brazil is a prominent candidate for enrolling in an NSOAP process to enhance its public health system's functionality. An NSOAP in Brazil can help mitigate social disparities, promote greater efficiency in allocating existing resources, and optimise public health system financing. This process can also encourage the creation of resources and distinct NSOAP vocabulary in Portuguese to facilitate the development of NSOAPs in other Portuguese-speaking and low- and middle-income countries. In this viewpoint, we explore why an NSOAP can benefit Brazil's surgical system, national features that enable surgical policymaking, and how multiple stakeholder engagement can contribute to the country's planning, validation, and implementation of an NSOAP.

Virtual Versus Conventional Planning in Orthognathic Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of hard tissues movements planned to result of the maxillary and mandibular positions between conventional surgical planning (CSP) and virtual surgical planning (VSP) in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. Methods: A systematic electronic search was carried out in six databases and gray literature with no restriction of publication date and language. Clinical observational studies that compared accuracy of maxillary position between CSP and VSP were included. Linear measurements of the mandible in the transverse plane and linear measurements of the maxilla in the vertical, horizontal and transverse planes were considered for analysis, comparing planned to postoperative outcomes of CSP and VSP. Cochrane tool was used to assess bias risk. A meta-analysis was performed to summarize similar results by using the Review Manager 5.3 software. Significance level was set at 5%. Results: Six studies (2 RCT and 4 retrospective cohorts) were included according to inclusion and eligibility criteria, involving 255 patients. The inter-rater reliability of selection and eligibility was excellent (k = 0.8315 and k = 0.9329, respectively). Two studies presented that VSP seemed to have better results than CSP regarding linear measurements of the mandible in the transverse plane. Results from CSP and VSP were similar in accuracy for hard tissue in vertical plane of maxillary position (I2 = 0%; p = 0.17), although VSP was more accurate in horizontal plane (I2 = 0%; p = 0.02). Conclusion: VSP presented better accuracy for transverse movements in mandible of asymmetric patients. VSP showed to be more accurate for movements in the horizontal plane, and qualitative analysis seemed to be more effective for transverse movements.

Computed tomography changes diagnosis, management and surgical planning of ankle fractures.

PURPOSE: To demonstrate how the use of adjunctive Computed Tomography (CT) can modify diagnosis, treatment options, and operative planning of ankle fractures in comparison with conventional radiographs (CR) in isolation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 53 patients diagnosed with an ankle fracture between 2011 and 2016, were assessed with CT and CR. Evaluations of the fractures using CR in isolation and CR combined with CT were compared using different readers. Fractures were assessed in terms of type, displacement, size, associated injuries, treatment, patient position and surgical planning. RESULTS: The medial malleolus fractures characteristics (posteromedial fragment and anterior colliculus), the presence of posterior malleolus fracture and its characteristics (displacement, size, posteromedial or posterolateral segment) (ps < 0.042), syndesmosis injury (p < 0.001), and the absence of deltoid ligament lesion (p < 0.001), were more evident with the combination of CT and radiographs. There was an increase in operative indication (p = 0.007), prone positioning (p = 0.002), posterior malleolus surgical treatment (p < 0.001), posterolateral approach for the lateral malleolus (p = 0.003), and syndesmosis fixation (p = 0.020) with the association of CT and CR, among all groups of expertise, with a high interobserver reliability (> 0.75). CONCLUSIONS: The CR may fail to demonstrate subtle lesions, such as posterior malleolus fractures and syndesmotic injuries. The CT evaluation increases the diagnostic precision and improves the quality of information the surgeon receives, what might positively affect patient care. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: Retrospective Comparative Study.

Photo-Stacking Technique for Neuroanatomical High-Definition Photography and 3-Dimensional Modeling.

BACKGROUND: Three-dimensional (3D) neuroanatomical knowledge is vital in neurosurgery. Technological advances improved 3D anatomical perception, but they are usually expensive and not widely available. The aim of the present study was to provide a detailed description of the photo-stacking technique for high-resolution neuroanatomical photography and 3D modeling. METHODS: The photo-stacking technique was described in a step-by-step approach. The time for image acquisition, file conversion, processing, and final production was measured using 2 processing methods. The total number and file size of images are presented. Measures of central tendency and dispersion report the measured values. RESULTS: Ten models were used in both methods achieving 20 models with high-definition images. The mean number of acquired images was 40.6 (14-67), image acquisition time 51.50 ± 18.8 s, file conversion time 250 ± 134.6 s, processing time 50.46 ± 21.46 s and 41.97 ± 20.84 s, and 3D reconstruction time was 4.29 ± 0.74 s and 3.89 ± 0.60 s for methods B and C, respectively. The mean file size of RAW files is 1010 ± 452 megabyte (MB) and 101.06 ± 38.09 MB for Joint Photographic Experts Group files after conversion. The mean size of the final image means size is 71.9 ± 0.126 MB, and the mean file size of the 3D model means is 37.4 ± 0.516 MB for both methods. The total equipment used was less expensive than other reported systems. CONCLUSIONS: The photo-stacking technique is a simple and inexpensive method to create 3D models and high-definition images that could prove valuable in neuroanatomy training.

An Overview of 3D Anatomical Model Printing in Orthopedic Trauma Surgery.

Introduction: 3D object printing technology is a resource increasingly used in medicine in recent years, mainly incorporated in surgical areas like orthopedics. The models made by 3D printing technology provide surgeons with an accurate analysis of complex anatomical structures, allowing the planning, training, and surgery simulation. In orthopedic surgery, this technique is especially applied in oncological surgeries, bone, and joint reconstructions, and orthopedic trauma surgeries. In these cases, it is possible to prototype anatomical models for surgical planning, simulating, and training, besides printing of instruments and implants. Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to describe the acquisition and processing from computed tomography images for 3D printing, to describe modeling and the 3D printing process of the biomodels in real size. This paper highlights 3D printing with the applicability of the 3D biomodels in orthopedic surgeries and shows some examples of surgical planning in orthopedic trauma surgery. Patients and Methods: Four examples were selected to demonstrate the workflow and rationale throughout the process of planning and printing 3D models to be used in a variety of situations in orthopedic trauma surgeries. In all cases, the use of 3D modeling has impacted and improved the final treatment strategy. Conclusion: The use of the virtual anatomical model and the 3D printed anatomical model with the additive manufacturing technology proved to be effective and useful in planning and performing the surgical treatment of complex articular fractures, allowing surgical planning both virtual and with the 3D printed anatomical model, besides being useful during the surgical time as a navigation instrument.

Use of Virtual Reality and Three-Dimensional Printing in the Surgical Planning of Slide Tracheoplasty.

Purpose: To describe our experience using virtual reality (VR) and three-dimensional (3D) printing as complements for the surgical planning process of slide tracheoplasty (ST) in patients with congenital tracheal stenosis (CTS). Description: VR and 3D printing are used for the surgical planning of ST as a therapeutic option in three female patients under five years of age with CTS. Evaluation: We assessed the planned surgical procedure, procedural time, postoperative complications, and outcomes, as well as the main surgeon's experience with the use of the applied technologies. Conclusions: The interaction within the VR environment allowed for collaboration of the surgical plan between surgical staff and enhancement of the radiologist-surgeon communication, while procedural simulation with 3D printing prototypes allowed for refining technical abilities for the surgical interventions. Based on our experience, the application of these technologies have added value to the surgical planning of ST and its outcomes in the treatment of CTS.

Virtual preoperative planning and 3D tumoral reconstruction with Horos open-source software.

Background: Presurgical three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions allow spatial localization of cerebral lesions and their relationship with adjacent anatomical structures for optimal surgical resolution. The purpose of the present article is to present a method of virtual preoperative planning aiming to enhance 3D comprehension of neurosurgical pathologies using free DICOM image viewers. Case Description: We describe the virtual presurgical planning of a 61-year-old female presenting a cerebral tumor. 3D reconstructions were created with the "Horos®" Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine viewer, utilizing images obtained from contrast-enhanced brain magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. The tumor and adjacent relevant structures were identified and delimited. A sequential virtual simulation of the surgical stages for the approach was performed with the identification of local gyral and vascular patterns of the cerebral surface for posterior intraoperative recognition. Through virtual simulation, an optimal approach was gained. Accurate localization and complete removal of the lesion were achieved during the surgical procedure. Virtual presurgical planning with open-source software can be utilized for supratentorial pathologies in both urgent and elective cases. Virtual recognition of vascular and cerebral gyral patterns is helpful reference points for intraoperative localization of lesions lacking cortical expression, allowing less invasive corticotomies. Conclusion: Digital manipulation of cerebral structures can increase anatomical comprehension of neurosurgical lesions to be treated. 3D interpretation of neurosurgical pathologies and adjacent anatomical structures is essential for developing an effective and safe surgical approach. The described technique is a feasible and accessible option for presurgical planning.

Comparative Study with and without the Use of 3D Prototyping of an Unconventional Technique in the Surgical Planning of Revision of Total Hip Arthroplasty.

This article presents a comparison between two cases in which there was a need for revision of total hip arthroplasty due to aseptic acetabular failure. We used 3D prototyping in one of the cases to perform an unconventional technique of molding synthesis material before the procedure to evaluate the time saved in the transoperative period in complex cases.

Comparative Study with and without the Use of 3D Prototyping of an Unconventional Technique in the Surgical Planning of Revision of Total Hip Arthroplasty / Estudo comparativo com e sem o uso de prototipagem em 3D de uma técnica não convencional no planejamento cirúrgico de revisão de artroplastia total de quadril

Abstract This article presents a comparison between two cases in which there was a need for revision of total hip arthroplasty due to aseptic acetabular failure. We used 3D prototyping in one of the cases to perform an unconventional technique of molding synthesis material before the procedure to evaluate the time saved in the transoperative period in complex cases.

Resumo Este artigo apresenta uma comparação entre dois casos em que havia a necessidade de revisão de artroplastia total de quadril por falha acetabular asséptica. Utilizamos prototipagem em 3D em um dos casos para realizar uma técnica não convencional de moldagem de material de síntese antes do procedimento, com objetivo de avaliar o tempo economizado no transoperatório em casos complexos.

Management of Bilateral Condylar Fractures in an Edentulous Patient with Atrophic Mandible Using CADCAM Technology.

Purpose: The objective of this article is to report the case of an edentulous patient with a diagnosis of bilateral condylar fracture, who was treated using virtual planning. Methods: CAD/CAM technology was used for the design and manufacture of a Gunning splint, which was employed for open reduction of the right fracture and closed management of the left side. Results: The reduction of the right condylar fracture projected in the planning was achieved, as well as the return of the vertical dimension and the restoration of function, after 28 months of observation. Conclusion: In the case of total edentulism, the lack of occlusal guidance and bone atrophy are important variables to consider; however, tools such as CAD/CAM technology can be used to take more predictable treatment decisions and facilitate the execution of the procedures.

Modelo de impresión 3D para planificación quirúrgica en trasplante hepático con donante vivo adulto-adulto / Three-dimensional printing of a liver model for surgical planning in adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation

Gracias a los grandes avances de la tecnología, los últimos diez años, la impresión en tres dimensiones (3D) se ha convertido en una herramienta accesible, útil e innovadora para distintas áreas de la medicina. Entre ellas planificación quirúrgica, creación de implantes y prótesis, educación médica e incluso comunicación médico-paciente. Con respecto a planificación quirúrgica, la impresión 3D cobra especial relevancia en cirugías de alta complejidad. En el caso del trasplante hepático con donante vivo, donde es prioritario garantizar la máxima seguridad para el donante, al mismo tiempo que la mejor calidad del injerto para el receptor, la planificación quirúrgica es mandatoria. En este aspecto, la impresión 3D de un modelo de hígado, anatómicamente comparable al del donante, entrega al cirujano la posibilidad de obtener una imagen más clara, directa y tangible, desde cualquier ángulo del órgano, que una imagen virtual tradicional. De esta forma, el cirujano tiene a su alcance una herramienta adicional para plantear el mejor abordaje quirúrgico, anticipar variaciones anatómicas e incluso, cuando el material de impresión lo permite, practicar el procedimiento. En Clínica Las Condes, el centro de trasplante junto al Centro de Innovación, trabajaron en conjunto en la impresión 3D de dos modelos de hígado, utilizados para la planificación quirúrgica de los primeros dos trasplantes hepáticos con donante vivo adulto-adulto realizados en Latinoamérica, donde la hepatectomía del donante se realizó de manera totalmente laparoscópica. El objetivo de este trabajo es describir el proceso de impresión 3D y analizar las dificultades y beneficios del proceso y sus resultados.

The last ten years, thanks to the great advances in technology, three-dimensional (3D) printing has become an accessible, useful, and innovative tool for different areas of medicine. These include surgical planning, implant and prosthetic creation, medical education, and even doctor-patient communication. Regarding surgical planning, 3D printing takes on special relevance in highly complex surgeries. In the case of living donor liver transplantation where it is a priority to guarantee maximum safety for the donor, as well as the best quality of the graft for the recipient, surgical planning is mandatory. Regarding this, 3D printing of an anatomically comparable liver model of the donor, gives the surgeon the possibility of obtaining a clearer, more direct, and tangible image, from any angle of the organ, than a traditional virtual image. In this manner, the surgeon has an additional tool to plan the best surgical approach, anticipate anatomical variations and even, when the impression material allows it, to practice the procedure. Transplant center of Clinica las Condes, together with Innovation laboratory worked together on the 3D printing process liver models used for surgical planning of the first two liver transplants with an adult-adult laparoscopic living donor. The objective of this work is to describe the 3D printing process and analyze the difficulties and benefits of the process and its results.

Evaluation of the accuracy of virtual planning in bimaxillary orthognathic surgery: a systematic review.

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the accuracy of virtual planning in bimaxillary orthognathic surgery in bone by comparing the mean linear and angular measurements of the surgical plan with the actual surgical result. Electronic databases, MEDLINE via PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, the Cochrane Library, grey literature, and the American clinical trials registry (www.ClinicalTrials.gov), were accessed as search engines. The studies consisted of publications on the assessment of accuracy in virtual planning in bimaxillary orthognathic surgery between 2010 and 2020. After application of the eligibility criteria, 26 articles were included, and their quality was evaluated using the methodological index for non-randomised studies (MINORS) tool and Cohen's kappa statistic in the MedCalc program (MedCalc Software Ltd). Evidence obtained by comparing the planning and surgical results, both in the maxilla and mandible, showed that there is great accuracy in virtual planning in bimaxillary orthognathic surgery.

A granular analysis of service delivery for surgical system strengthening: Application of the Lancet indicators for policy development in Colombia.

Background: The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery (LCoGS) surgical indicators have given the surgical community metrics for objectively characterizing the disparity in access to surgical healthcare. However, aggregate national statistics lack sufficient specificity to inform strengthening plans at the community level. We performed a second-stage analysis of Colombian surgical system service delivery to inform the development of resource- and context-sensitive interventions to inform a revision of the Decennial Public Health Plan for access inequity resolution. Methods: Data from the year 2016 to inform total operative volume (TOV) and 30-day non-risk adjusted peri-operative mortality (POMR) were collected from the Colombian national health information system. TOV and POMR were sub-characterized by demographics, urgency, service line, disease pathology and facility location. Findings: In 2016, aggregate national mortality was 0·87%, while mortality attributable to elective and emergency surgery was 0·73% and 1·30%, respectively. The elderly experienced a 5·6-fold higher mortality, with 4·2% undergoing an operation within 30 days of dying. Individuals undergoing hepatobiliary, thoracic, cardiac, and neurosurgical operations experienced the highest mortality rates while obstetrics, general surgery, orthopaedics, and urology performed the largest procedure volume. Finally, analysis of operation and service line specific POMR reveals opportunities for improvement. Interpretation: This granular second-stage analysis provides actionable data which is fundamental to the development of resource and context-sensitive interventions to address gaps and inequities in surgical system service delivery. Furthermore, this analysis validates the modeling underlying development of the LCoGS indicators. These data will inform the assessment of implementation priorities and revision of the Colombian Decennial Public Health Plan. Funding: None.

Technological Integration of Virtual Surgical Planning, Surgical Navigation, Endoscopic Support and Patient-Specific Implant in Orbital Trauma.

Currently, we have different technologies and techniques that improve the results in orbital trauma. However, there are few studies that study the technological integration in orbital trauma and the synergism of all the techniques. For this reason, the objective of this case is to illustrate the management of orbital trauma by integrating endoscopic support, virtual surgical navigation, patient-specific implant, virtual surgical planning in the management of a sequel due to insufficient reconstruction of orbital volume.

Surgical planning of horizontal strabismus using multiple output regression tree.

Strabismus is an eye disease that affects about 0.12%-9.86% of the population, which can cause irreversible sensory damage to vision and psychological problems. The most severe cases require surgical intervention, despite other less invasive techniques being available for a more conservative approach. As for surgeries, the treatment goal is to align the eyes to recover binocular vision, which demands knowledge, training, and experience. One of the leading causes of failure is human error during the measurement of deviation. Thus, this work proposes a new method based on the Decision Tree Regressor algorithms to assist in the surgical planning for horizontal strabismus to predict recoil and resection measures in the lateral and medial rectus muscles. In the presented method, two application approaches were taken, being in the form of multiple single target models, one procedure at a time, and the form of one multiple target model or all surgical procedures together. The method's efficiency is indicated by the average difference between the value indicated by the method and the physician's value. In our most accurate model, an average error of 0.66 mm was obtained for all surgical procedures, both for resection and recoil in the indication of the horizontal strabismus surgical planning. The results present the feasibility of using Decision Tree Regressor algorithms to perform the planning of strabismus surgeries, making it possible to predict correction values for surgical procedures based on medical data analysis and exceeding state-of-art.

[Impact of 3D printing in surgical planning of congenital heart disease]. / Efectos de la impresión 3D en la planificación quirúrgica de las cardiopatías congénitas.

Introducción: Los defectos cardíacos congénitos constituyen el 30% de todas las anomalías congénitas. La prevalencia es de 8/1,000 recién nacidos vivos, sin predominio de género. Para una planificación quirúrgica óptima es esencial una evaluación precisa de la anatomía en los defectos cardíacos congénitos. Las modalidades de imagen como el ecocardiograma, la angiografía por cateterismo cardíaco, la tomografía computarizada (TC) o la resonancia magnética (RM) se utilizan de forma regular para el diagnóstico de las cardiopatías congénitas. Estos métodos pueden proporcionar reconstrucciones virtuales en reconstrucción volumétrica o 3D, pero no réplicas táctiles reales de la anatomía cardíaca. Objetivo: Realizar modelos de corazón impresos en 3D con la finalidad de proporcionar réplicas táctiles 3D reales de la anatomía cardíaca para visualizar de forma detallada todas las perspectivas posibles de las estructuras extracardíacas o intracardíacas. Métodos: Los datos de la imagen se obtuvieron en formato DICOM, se editaron en el paquete de software "3D slicer 4.3" y se exportaron para la impresión en formato de archivo (.stl). Resultados y conclusiones: Con la impresión 3D se puede evaluar de forma detallada la anatomía intracardíaca y extracardíaca con modelos cardíacos en tiempo real. Esta técnica es de gran utilidad, sobre todo en los defectos cardíacos congénitos complejos, ya que permite hacer una planificación precisa del procedimiento quirúrgico. Introduction: Congenital heart disease makes up for 30% of all congenital anomalies. The prevalence is 8/1,000 live newborns, without predominance of gender. Imaging methods such as echocardiography, angiography, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging must be routinely used in congenital heart disease. The mentioned methods can provide virtual reconstructions in volumetric reconstruction or in three dimensional (3D), but only 3D-printed heart models can provide real 3D tactile replicas of cardiac anatomy. Objective: To make 3D printed heart models in order to provide real 3D tactile replicas of the cardiac anatomy that allow a detailed visualization from all possible perspectives, either of extracardiac or intracardiac structures. Methods: This information is useful for surgical decision making, especially in patients with complex cardiac defects. DICOM, edited in a software package "3D slicer 4.3" and exported for printing in file format (.stl). Results and conclusions: With 3D printing, the intracardiac and extracardiac anatomy can be evaluated in detail with real-scale cardiac models of the patient, avoiding unexpected findings. This technique is very useful especially in complex congenital heart defects, since it allows precise planning of the surgical procedure.

Efectos de la impresión 3D en la planificación quirúrgica de las cardiopatías congénitas / Impact of 3D printing in surgical planning of congenital heart disease

Resumen Introducción: Los defectos cardíacos congénitos constituyen el 30% de todas las anomalías congénitas. La prevalencia es de 8/1,000 recién nacidos vivos, sin predominio de género. Para una planificación quirúrgica óptima es esencial una evaluación precisa de la anatomía en los defectos cardíacos congénitos. Las modalidades de imagen como el ecocardiograma, la angiografía por cateterismo cardíaco, la tomografía computarizada (TC) o la resonancia magnética (RM) se utilizan de forma regular para el diagnóstico de las cardiopatías congénitas. Estos métodos pueden proporcionar reconstrucciones virtuales en reconstrucción volumétrica o 3D, pero no réplicas táctiles reales de la anatomía cardíaca. Objetivo: Realizar modelos de corazón impresos en 3D con la finalidad de proporcionar réplicas táctiles 3D reales de la anatomía cardíaca para visualizar de forma detallada todas las perspectivas posibles de las estructuras extracardíacas o intracardíacas. Métodos: Los datos de la imagen se obtuvieron en formato DICOM, se editaron en el paquete de software "3D slicer 4.3" y se exportaron para la impresión en formato de archivo (.stl). Resultados y conclusiones: Con la impresión 3D se puede evaluar de forma detallada la anatomía intracardíaca y extracardíaca con modelos cardíacos en tiempo real. Esta técnica es de gran utilidad, sobre todo en los defectos cardíacos congénitos complejos, ya que permite hacer una planificación precisa del procedimiento quirúrgico.

Abstract Introduction: Congenital heart disease makes up for 30% of all congenital anomalies. The prevalence is 8/1,000 live newborns, without predominance of gender. Imaging methods such as echocardiography, angiography, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging must be routinely used in congenital heart disease. The mentioned methods can provide virtual reconstructions in volumetric reconstruction or in three dimensional (3D), but only 3D-printed heart models can provide real 3D tactile replicas of cardiac anatomy. Objective: To make 3D printed heart models in order to provide real 3D tactile replicas of the cardiac anatomy that allow a detailed visualization from all possible perspectives, either of extracardiac or intracardiac structures. Methods: This information is useful for surgical decision making, especially in patients with complex cardiac defects. DICOM, edited in a software package "3D slicer 4.3" and exported for printing in file format (.stl). Results and conclusions: With 3D printing, the intracardiac and extracardiac anatomy can be evaluated in detail with real-scale cardiac models of the patient, avoiding unexpected findings. This technique is very useful especially in complex congenital heart defects, since it allows precise planning of the surgical procedure.