Invited Lecture 1.8

Abstract

This presentation provides our collaborative experience between Curtin University and Taylor’s University over the last seven years through utilising a 3D-printing facility at Taylor’s University to print a range of patient-specific low-cost models and exploring the value of these 3D printed models in medical applications. A total of 63 models were produced with use of different types of printers and printing materials to suit medical applications. These models include personalized models in cardiovascular disease (from congenital heart disease to aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection and coronary artery disease) and tumours (lung cancer/nodules, pancreatic cancer and biliary disease) based on CT data, and fetus models (including fetus, placental cord, placenta and uterus) from ultrasound images. Furthermore, we designed and developed novel 3D-printed models, including a 3D-printed breast model for the simulation of breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and calcified plaques for the simulation of extensive calcifications in the coronary arteries. Most of these 3D-printed models were scanned with CT (except for the breast model which was scanned using MRI) for investigation of their educational and clinical value, with promising results achieved. These patient-specific models were printed at a 1:1 life size ratio showing highly accurate in replicating both anatomy and pathology in different body regions with affordable costs. The 3D printed vascular models, in particular aortic aneurysm models serve as a useful tool to simulate endovascular stent grafting procedure and guide junior or inexperienced clinicians to enhance their practical skills before operating on real patients. Our novel 3D printed fetus models serve as a useful tool to educate sonographers in understanding and perception of placental cord site, therefore encouraging documentation of placental cord insertion migration during pregnancy ultrasound examinations. Our experience of producing low-cost and affordable 3D-printed models highlights the feasibility of utilizing 3D-printing technology in medical education and clinical practice.​​​