How Patient Specific 3D Printed Organ Replicas Help Patients Reach Informed Decisions

More and more, the medical profession is becoming aware that there may be significant advantages available from the use of 3D printed replicas of patient specific anatomy organs. A recent Master’s Thesis completed by a Drexel University student provides further proof of the value of these important tools. The student, Jason Kirk, has released the findings within his thesis titled, 3D Printed Cardiac Imaging Data. Kirk’s presentation is provided in the form of a video that offers excellent background information regarding the value of the tool as well as how the study was completed. The remainder of the thesis centers on the results that he found. The basic question that he tackled was “is there value for surgeons and their patients in reviewing 3D printed anatomy replicas?”

He goes into detail as to how he determined if tools such as the above noted replicas can offer assistance. The primary method he used to document the results was via video communication. Kirk notes that in the past, surgeons used such things as X-rays, drawings, CT imaging and computer animation when communicating with their patients regarding anatomy issues. Today, however, most surgeons agreed that those methods limit the discussion to basic two dimensional representations, “which frequently confused complex spatial relationships.”

During the video Kirk provides insight into the process of preparing 3D anatomy replicas. Initially, the healthcare professional begins with patient specific CT scan data which serves as the basis for developing the 3D replica. He indicates that patient specific data is then used in conjunction with a software program called “Mimics.” By using the software program, he is able to prepare the model and isolate the area of interest, in this case the heart muscle.

The software allows the computer to save the graphic details of the model. It is then ready to complete using a polyjet 3D printer. This type of printer works by depositing layer after layer of liquid resin. This portion of the model is allowed to cure for 24 hours. The model is then removed from the printer and inspected for any errors. Once complete, a digital model can be used, as is, or with further editing to create a 3D stylized physical object. It is printed in two sections so it can provide a visual representation of the heart that allows for internal and external views without compromising either.

Additionally, Kirk obtained input from a panel of cardiac experts, including cardiovascular surgeons, radiologists, and researchers from the Mayo Clinic, Hahnemann University Hospital as well as Drexel University College of Medicine. The goal of the interviews was to determine if a 3D printed cardiac anatomy replica could be used to facilitate doctor-patient communications by providing a supplemental decision making aid.

His research indicated “Cardiac anatomy replicas can be used to facilitate Doctor/Patient communication and supplement contemporary visualization techniques by providing accurate three dimensional data which offers additional haptic and spatial feedback specific to the patient’s anatomy and pathology.”

Or stated another way, Kirk determined that in order to overcome the limitations of two dimensional presentations, one needs to combine patient centered healthcare, patient specific imaging data, and additive manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing; to assist empowered doctors to better communicate with their patients. Ultimately, this should lead to better, and more informed decisions.

Kirk’s thesis would appear to offer additional support for the idea that patients who have the ability to observe 3D anatomy replicas of affected organs gain a better understanding of the issues involved. Replicas that are based on patient specific data afford the best opportunity for meaningful dialog.

If you were to undergo a procedure, would you prefer to have a 3D printed model of your organs present while the surgeons explained the procedure to you?  Let us know your opinion in the 3D printed organ replica forum thread on 3DPB.com. Check out Kirk’s video below.