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3D printing and modeling of congenital heart defects: A technical review
Author(s) -
Townsend Kevin,
Pietila Todd
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
birth defects research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.845
H-Index - 17
ISSN - 2472-1727
DOI - 10.1002/bdr2.1342
Subject(s) - visualization , software , process (computing) , computer science , 3d printing , 3d model , human–computer interaction , multimedia , engineering drawing , computer vision , computer graphics (images) , medical physics , artificial intelligence , medicine , engineering , programming language , mechanical engineering
Use of 3D printing technology is expanding in healthcare. One of the common applications is the creation of anatomical models of congenital heart defects (CHD) from medical image data. These patient‐specific models are being used for multiple purposes including visualization of anatomy, simulation of surgical procedures, patient education, and facilitating communication between clinical staff. The process for creating CHD models begins with acquiring volumetric image data that is segmented using medical image processing software. A virtual 3D model is calculated based on the segmented data which can be further refined using computer‐aided design software. Last, the virtual model is transferred to a 3D printer for production. By obtaining detailed knowledge on the process for creating patient‐specific CHD anatomical models, institutions can implement the technology in an efficient and cost‐effective manner.