Three-dimensional printing of atrial septal defect from
echocardiographic images: feasibility, fidelity and potential
applications
Abstract
Objectives —We sought to investigate the technical
feasibility, fidelity and the potential applications of
three-dimensional(3D) printed atrial septal defect (ASD) models based on
three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D-TEE) images
preliminarily. Methods—We retrospectively collected 40 ASD
patients’ 3D-TEE images. The 3D-TEE data were imported into
post-processing software to create printable 3D digital models, the
patient-specific models were then printed by the 3D printer. Fidelity of
the 3D printed models were quantitatively evaluated by comparing the
measurements from 3D ASD models and echocardiographic data.
Results —Ultrasound-derived 3D ASD models were
acquired in all the forty cases successfully. There was good consistency
and no significant differences in ASD size parameters among 3D printed
models, 2D-TEE images and 3D-TEE images(all
P>0.05). Also, it showed small difference among 3D
printed models, 2D-TEE images and 3D-TEE images in the absolute
difference value of ASD size parameters. There’s a highly significant
correlation between the ASD parameters including the maximal diameter,
the minimal diameter and circumference measured by 3D ASD printed models
and the corresponding parameters of ASD occluders applied in actual
surgical procedure. Simulation exercises in the 3D ASD printed models
had an impressive effect based on the comprehensive assessment of the
ASD parameters. Conclusions—It is feasible to use 3D-TEE
images as the data source of ASD 3D printed models. Ultrasound-derived
ASD 3D printed models show highly fidelity, which contributes to provide
evidence for the clinical application of 3D printing technology in
decision of ASD occlusion.