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Creating vascular models by postprocessing computed tomography angiography images: a guide for anatomical education

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Abstract

Background

A new application of teaching anatomy includes the use of computed tomography angiography (CTA) images to create clinically relevant three-dimensional (3D) printed models. The purpose of this article is to review recent innovations on the process and the application of 3D printed models as a tool for using under and post-graduate medical education.

Methods

Images of aortic arch pattern received by CTA were converted into 3D images using the Google SketchUp free software and were saved in stereolithography format. Using a 3D printer (Makerbot), a model mode polylactic acid material was printed.

Results

A two-vessel left aortic arch was identified consisting of the brachiocephalic trunk and left subclavian artery. The life-like 3D models were rotated 360° in all axes in hand.

Conclusions

The early adopters in education and clinical practices have embraced the medical imaging-guided 3D printed anatomical models for their ability to provide tactile feedback and a superior appreciation of visuospatial relationship between the anatomical structures. Printed vascular models are used to assist in preoperative planning, develop intraoperative guidance tools, and to teach patients surgical trainees in surgical practice.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Anatomy, Ege University, 35100, Izmir, Turkey

    Figen Govsa, Mehmet Asim Ozer & Suzan Sirinturk

  2. Department of Radiology, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey

    Cenk Eraslan

  3. Medical Student Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey

    Ahmet Kemal Alagoz

Authors
  1. Figen Govsa
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  2. Mehmet Asim Ozer
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  3. Suzan Sirinturk
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  4. Cenk Eraslan
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  5. Ahmet Kemal Alagoz
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Figen Govsa.

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The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

Ethical standard

Ethical approval is not required for studies of this nature at our institution. All data were anonymised at source. The experiment complies with the current laws of the country in which they were performed.

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Govsa, F., Ozer, M.A., Sirinturk, S. et al. Creating vascular models by postprocessing computed tomography angiography images: a guide for anatomical education. Surg Radiol Anat 39, 905–910 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-017-1822-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-017-1822-2

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