Submission
| Title: | Three-Dimensional Modeling of Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysm for Surgical Simulation |
| Presenter: | Aditi Ravikumar |
| Institution: | Indiana University School of Medicine |
| Authors: | Aditi Ravikumar 1, Matthew Tobin 2, Bradley Bohnstedt 2
1 Indiana University School of Medicine; 2 Indiana University School of Medicine, Department of Neurosurgery |
Abstract
| Background/Significance/Rationale: | A ruptured cerebral aneurysm is a common cause of life-threatening subarachnoid hemorrhage and can be treated using open surgical clipping or endovascular coiling and stenting. The recent shift towards endovascular procedures has decreased the frequency of open surgical aneurysm clipping resulting in less opportunities for neurosurgical residents to develop procedural skills needed to successfully clip an aneurysm. To fill the gap, three-dimensional (3D) modeling and printing can be adapted to create a surgical simulator. |
| Methods: | A preexisting model of a skull was remodeled to print with a pre-cut pterional craniotomy. A 3D model of a circle of Willis with an anterior communicating artery aneurysm was constructed using a patient’s computed tomography angiography data. The model was prepared for 3D printing. A prototype was printed using acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene and coated with silicone containing red pigment. The ABS was dissolved using acetone to create a hollow silicone cast of the aneurysm and the circle of Willis. |
| Results/Findings: | Following successful printing and casting, the hollow vascular model was positioned within the skull and a simulation was assembled. Comparing the similarity between the view of the aneurysm model through the pterional craniotomy window and the actual surgical perspective, suggested the necessity to move the craniotomy window more anteriorly. |
| Conclusions/Discussion: | 3D printing and silicone casting of cerebrovascular models is a feasible method to create surgical simulators as it can approximate the anatomy and tactile characteristics of vasculature. |
| Translational/Human Health Impact: | 3D printed simulators can enhance surgical training by increasing exposure to rare cases and open procedures. A low-acuity teaching and practice environment can be created at no risk to the patient. By allowing the attending physicians to focus on teaching and trainees to focus on incorporating feedback and practicing, 3D printed simulators can improve outcomes for future patients. |
