Pixels to precision: Neuroradiology's leap into 3D printing for personalized medicine

Abstract

The realm of precision medicine, particularly its application within various sectors, shines notably in neuroradiology, where it leverages the advancements of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. This synergy has significantly enhanced surgical planning, fostered the creation of tailor-made medical apparatus, bolstered medical pedagogy, and refined targeted therapeutic delivery. This review delves into the contemporary advancements and applications of 3D printing in neuroradiology, underscoring its pivotal role in refining surgical strategies, augmenting patient outcomes, and diminishing procedural risks. It further articulates the utility of 3D-printed anatomical models for enriched comprehension, simulation, and educational endeavors. In addition, it illuminates the horizon of bespoke medical devices and prosthetics, illustrating their utility in addressing specific cranial and spinal anomalies. This narrative extends to scrutinize how 3D printing underpins precision medicine by offering customized drug delivery mechanisms and therapies tailored to the patient's unique medical blueprint. It navigates through the inherent challenges of 3D printing, including the financial implications, the need for procedural standardization, and the assurance of quality. Prospective trajectories and burgeoning avenues, such as material and technological innovations, the confluence with artificial intelligence, and the broadening scope of 3D printing in neurosurgical applications, are explored. Despite existing hurdles, the fusion of 3D printing with neuroradiology heralds a transformative era in precision medicine, poised to elevate patient care standards and pioneer novel surgical paradigms.

Keywords: Anatomical models; Neuroradiology; Precision medicine; Surgical planning; Three-dimensional printing.

Figure 1:

Cinematic rendering of volumetric magnetic resonance data. These images illustrate the detailed anatomy of the lumbar spine, highlighting the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and surrounding structures. The cinematic rendering algorithm enhances the visualization of bone and soft-tissue interfaces, providing a life-like representation ideal for surgical planning and educational purposes.

Figure 2:

Cinematic reconstruction of lower thoracic and lumbar spine volumetric computed tomography data. These images provide multiple perspectives of the lumbar spine, showcasing the complex anatomy and the relationship between the vertebral bodies, ribs, and spinal cord. The cinematic rendering technique allows for a more intuitive understanding of the three-dimensional spatial relationships, critical for both diagnostic and surgical applications.

Figure 3:

Detailed cinematic rendering of the lumbar spine anatomy in multiple views, illustrating the vertebral alignment, intervertebral discs, and surrounding bony structures. These images highlight the intricate anatomy of the lumbar region from both lateral and posterior perspectives, enhancing spatial understanding critical for diagnostic evaluations and surgical planning.

Figure 4:

Cinematic reconstruction of cross-sectional views through the lumbar and sacral spine, providing a detailed representation of the muscular and soft-tissue structures surrounding the vertebrae. These images reveal the layered anatomy and spatial relationships within the lumbar region, facilitating an in-depth comprehension ideal for both educational and clinical applications in spinal surgery and pathology assessment.