Abstract
Introduction
Brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) present complex challenges in neurosurgery, requiring precise pre-surgical planning. In this context, 3D printing technology has emerged as a promising tool to aid in understanding bAVM morphology and enhance surgical outcomes, particularly in pediatric patients. This study aims to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of using 3D AVM models in pediatric bAVM surgery.
Methodology
The study was conducted at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and cases were selected sequentially between October 2021 and February 2023. Eight pediatric bAVM cases with 3D models were compared to eight cases treated before the introduction of 3D printing models. The 3D modelling fidelity and clinical outcomes were assessed and compared between the two cohorts.
Results
The study demonstrated excellent fidelity between 3D models and actual operative anatomy, with a median difference of only 0.31 mm. There was no statistically significant difference in angiographic cure rates or complications between the 3D model group and the non-3D model group. Surgical time showed a non-significant increase in cases involving 3D models. Furthermore, the 3D model cohort included higher-grade bAVMs, indicating increased surgical confidence.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates the feasibility and efficacy of utilizing 3D AVM models in pediatric bAVM surgery. The high fidelity between the models and actual operative anatomy suggests that 3D modelling can enhance pre-surgical planning and intraoperative guidance without significantly increasing surgical times or complications. Further research with larger cohorts is warranted to confirm and refine the application of 3D modelling in clinical practice.
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LS wrote the methodology section about the 3D printing methods and helped with the figures related to that AS, DS and GJ wrote the article KS helped with the selection of the images and analysis of the MRI FR and AR helped with the angiographic figures and analysis of the postop images of the cases
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Saenz, A., Smith, L., Seunarine, K. et al. Implementation of 3D modelling to improve understanding and conceptualisation of arteriovenous malformation (AVM) morphology for the execution of safe microsurgical excision of complex paediatric AVMs. Childs Nerv Syst (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-024-06421-9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-024-06421-9