Stereolithographic models for surgical planning in congenital heart surgery.

PURPOSE Currently we are exploring the impact of using rapid prototyping techniques for surgical planning and intraoperative orientation during the correction of complex congenital malformation. DESCRIPTION We studied a patient with a left abnormal subclavian artery and right descending aorta as a rare cause of dyspnea and dysphagia. The patient was examined by magnetic resonance imaging angiography. The image data were visualized and reconstructed. Afterward a replica of the malformation was fabricated using a rapid prototyping machine. In addition, a stereolithographic model of an intracardiac lesion (ventricular septal defect) was fabricated with data obtained from a computed tomographic scan. EVALUATION Using data derived from a magnetic resonance imaging angiography or computed tomographic scan linked to proprietary software, we were able to create three-dimensional reconstructions of complex vascular pathology and intracardiac lesions. In addition, we fabricated replicas of congenital malformations using a rapid prototyping machine. The models could be sterilized and taken to the operating room for orientation during the corrective surgical procedure. CONCLUSIONS Stereolithographic replicas are helpful for choosing treatment strategies, surgical planning of corrections, and intraoperative orientation, and as demonstrations on life-like models for the patient.