3D-printing in preoperative planning in neonates with complex congenital heart defects

Abstract

The application of the 3D printing approach in medicine is currently becoming increasingly popular. The management of fetuses and newborns with congenital heart defects is often difficult, primarily due to the complexity of the anatomy. Here we report a newborn with a complex congenital malformation (absent pulmonary valve syndrome associated with tetralogy of Fallot), which could be clinically interpreted in different ways. 3D printing allowed to elucidate the exact anatomy more precisely and direct the cardiosurgeon to a definitive treatment.

Keywords: 3D printing; Absent pulmonary valve syndrome; cardiosurgery; congenital heart disease; tetralogy of Fallot.