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. 2023 Nov;105(8):747-753.
doi: 10.1308/rcsann.2022.0127. Epub 2023 Jan 9.

The perioperative utility of 3D printed models in complex surgical care: feedback from 106 cases

C Thorn  1 , J Ballard  2 , C Lockhart  2 , A Crone  2 , A Aarvold  3
Affiliations

The perioperative utility of 3D printed models in complex surgical care: feedback from 106 cases

C Thorn et al. Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2023 Nov.

Abstract

Introduction: 3D models are an emerging tool for surgical planning, providing an augmented method for the visualisation of a patient's anatomy. As their use increases, more data about the utility of these models is critical to inform budget allocation. This study provides the most comprehensive analysis to date for the use of 3D models in perioperative management.

Methods: 3D models for complex surgical cases in NHS hospitals were delivered alongside a surgeon feedback survey. The survey on the model's utility had been designed alongside the university data analytical team and focused on five areas: surgical planning and diagnosis, economic impact, impact on intraoperative and preoperative time, effect on communication and direct impact on the patient.

Results: There were 106 models used by 63 surgeons for complex surgical cases between May 2020 and March 2021, across multiple surgical specialties. The models were reported to have benefits in all perioperative areas, with 92.5% of responses agreeing that the 3D model was a better method for diagnosis and planning than traditional 2D techniques. Benefits were reported on preoperative planning (92.4%), economic savings due to equipment selection (54.4%), reduction in surgical time (41.5%) and surgeon-to-surgeon communication (92.6%).

Conclusion: 3D models were shown to have a wide range of benefits in a surgical setting. The reduction in surgical time could have the potential to help alleviate surgical backlogs. With more widespread use and optimisation of costs the use of 3D models could become the standard for unusual and complex surgical cases.

Keywords: 3D printed models; Complex surgery; Imaging modalities; Preoperative planning; Surgical planning.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Examples of 3D models used from a variety of specialities
Figure 2
Figure 2
Responses to questions relating to surgical planning and diagnosis
Figure 3
Figure 3
Responses to questions relating to intraoperative and preoperative time
Figure 4
Figure 4
Responses to questions relating to economic impact
Figure 5
Figure 5
Responses to questions relating to communication
Figure 6
Figure 6
Responses to questions relating to direct impact on the patient
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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