3D Rapid Prototyping Heart Model Validation for Teaching and Training - A Pilot Project in a Teaching Institution

Abstract Introduction: Rapid prototyping is a process by which three-dimensional (3D) computerized surface models are converted into physical models. In this study, a 3D heart bio model was created using the rapid prototyping method and the accuracy of this heart model was assessed by clinicians. Methods: The two-dimensional images of normal heart from gated computed tomography scan datasets were used to create a 3D model of the heart. The slices were then processed using the software BioModroid and printed with the 3D printer. The evaluation of the model was performed by a questionnaire answered by four cardiothoracic surgeons, 12 cardiologists, five radiologists, and nine surgical registrars. Results: Eighty-six percent of the anatomy structures showed in this model scored 100% accuracy. Structures such as circumflex branch of left coronary artery, great cardiac vein, papillary muscle, and coronary sinus were each rated 77%, 70%, 70%, and 57% accurate. Among 30 clinicians, a total of 93% rated the model accuracy as good and above; 64% of the clinicians evaluated this model as an excellent teaching tool for anatomy class. As a visual aid for surgery or interventional procedures, the model was rated excellent (40%), good (50%), average (23%), and poor (3%); 70% of the clinicians scored the model as above average for training purpose. Overall, this 3D rapid prototyping cardiac model was rated as excellent (33%), good (50%), and average (17%). Conclusion: This 3D rapid prototyping heart model will be a valuable source of anatomical education and cardiac interventional management.摘要 引言：快速成型（rapid prototyping）技术是一类将三维（3D）计算机化表面模型转化为实体物理模型的工艺过程。本研究采用该技术构建了心脏三维生物模型，并由临床医师对该模型的准确性开展评估。方法：本研究选取正常心脏的门控计算机断层扫描（gated computed tomography）数据集的二维影像，用于构建心脏三维模型。随后通过BioModroid软件对断层切片进行处理，并借助3D打印机（3D printer）完成实体模型打印。本次模型评估采用问卷调查方式，共有4名胸心外科医师、12名心内科医师、5名放射科医师及9名外科专科注册医师参与答卷。结果：本模型展示的解剖结构中，86%的结构准确率评分达100%。左冠状动脉旋支、心大静脉、乳头肌及冠状窦等结构的准确率评分分别为77%、70%、70%及57%。在30名参与评估的临床医师中，共计93%的受访者认为该模型的准确性处于良好及以上水平；64%的医师评价该模型为解剖学教学的优秀辅助工具。作为外科手术或介入操作的可视化辅助手段，该模型的评级分布为优秀（40%）、良好（50%）、一般（23%）及较差（3%）；70%的临床医师认为该模型在培训用途上的表现优于平均水平。整体而言，该三维快速成型心脏模型的综合评级为优秀（33%）、良好（50%）及一般（17%）。结论：本研究构建的三维快速成型心脏模型将成为解剖学教学及心脏介入诊疗领域的宝贵辅助资源。