Three-dimensional printing for perioperative planning of complex aortic arch surgery.

Abstract

In this study, we show the use of three-dimensional printing models for preoperative planning of surgery for patients with complex aortic arch anomalies. A 70-year-old man with an extensively arteriosclerotic aneurysm reaching from the ascending aorta to the descending aorta was referred to our center for complete aortic arch replacement. We visualized and reconstructed computed tomography data of the patient and fabricated a flexible three-dimensional model of the aortic arch including the aneurysm. This model was very helpful for the preoperative decision making and planning of the frozen elephant trunk procedure owing to the exact and lifelike illustration of the native aortic arch. Three-dimensional models are helpful in preoperative planning and postoperative evaluation of frozen elephant trunk procedures in patients with complex aortic anatomy.