An innovative way to plan surgeries.
Sophisticated 3D models are helping surgeons collaborate and precisely plan for complex surgeries with more accuracy than ever. It’s an exciting approach that’s delivering patient-specific surgical guides allowing accurate and predictable results, decreased time spent under anesthesia, faster recovery times, and shorter hospital stays.
It all starts with 3D printed models generated from a patient’s diagnostic imaging, such as a CT scan. With exact replicas of the patient’s anatomy, surgeons are able to virtually simulate a procedure based on the exact details of the patients features and shape. This enhanced precision has proven especially valuable for surgeries involving sensitive areas like the face, say surgeons on Mayo Clinic’s Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and Center for Aesthetic Medicine & Surgery teams.
How it works.
Computer-generated, 3D models are produced using a patient’s CT or MRI scans. The scans are processed using state-of-the-art software that creates a virtual 3D model, color coded for each tissue type, like bones, nerves, muscles, and tendons. Next, a life-size 3D model of the patient’s anatomy is printed layer by layer until a fully formed 3D structure is complete. Surgeons then use the model to accurately plan for, and individually tailor the procedure for the patient.
Deeper understanding leads to better results.
Having the images available of the patient’s anatomy as well as the planned outcome, along with a printed model provides the surgeon and the patient the ability to visualize, analyze and predict precisely how the surgery will end up. Patients are better able to understand their current and predicted anatomy allowing them to address expectations and become better prepared for surgery.
With detailed information and models at hand, the patient will be able to participate in their care and be a part of a more satisfying and rewarding experience. For example, if a patient needs skeletal fixation plates to repair a broken jaw, the plates can be pre-bent for an exact fit before surgery, shortening surgery time, and reducing the number of decisions that need to be made during the procedure.
Planning, printing, and procedure, all in one place.
Mayo Clinic has the largest point-of-care anatomic modeling unit in the United States, where 3D printed models are manufactured. The 8,000-square-foot space located at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is able to produce highly accurate 3D-printed models and surgical guides for Mayo Clinic’s plastic surgeons and other specialist on site. The proximity of the surgeons and the facility helps in expediting planning and other steps in
the process.
Learn more about Mayo Clinic’s Center for Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery services.
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