Maki Sugimoto, MD, PhD
Gastroenterology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine
Our new technology of Bio-Texture Modeling by multi-material 3D printing system enabled manufacturing patient-specific 3D organ models by simultaneous jetting of different types of model materials. We evaluated its feasibility in therapeutic simulation and navigation for digestive diseases to facilitate planning and execution of the therapeutic procedure.
Based on MDCT images, after generating an STL-file out of the patient’s data set, the inkjet 3D printer created a 3D multimaterial organ model. This system enabled the simultaneous use of two different rigid materials, two flexible materials, one of each type, any combination with transparent material, or two jets of the same material to form 3D organ textures and structures. The patient individual 3D printed models were used to plan and guide the successful therapeutic procedure in gastroenterology.
The 3D objects using combination of transparent and soft materials allowed creation of translucent models that show visceral organs and other details, overcome the limitation of the conventional image-guided navigation. The actual size transparent organ model with vessels and tumor could be manufactured and be handled. The elastic GI tract, bile duct, and solid organs (liver, pancreas, etc.) and bony structure were useful for simulation and educational aspects. This enabled each composite material to provide specific values of organ bio-texture for tensile strength and elongation to break for training of pre-surgical dissection and suturing procedures.
These technologies provided better anatomical reference tool as a tailor-made simulation and navigation including EUS-guided IVR, laparoendoscopic surgery, NOTES, and robotic surgery and contribute to medical safety/accuracy, less-invasiveness and improvement of the medical education for students and trainees.
Its combines the advantages of conventional 3D modeling and precise virtual 3D planning and can be applied advantageously in personalized simulation and navigation.
Session: Poster Presentation
Program Number: P190
