Abstract
Introduction Three-dimensional (3D) technology is increasingly applied for planning challenging
surgical interventions. We report our experience using 3D printing and virtual reconstruction
for surgical planning of complex tumor resections in children.
Methods Data were obtained from preoperative magnetic resonance. imaging analysis and 3D
virtual recreations were performed using specialized computer software. 3D real-scale
geometry models, including tumor, adjacent organs, and relevant vascularization, were
printed in colorimetric scale and different materials for optimal structures discrimination.
Results Four complex cases were selected. The first case was a bilateral Wilms tumor. The
volumetric reconstruction proved the presence of enough healthy renal tissue, allowing
bilateral nephron-sparing surgery. In the second case, reconstruction contributed
to the location of pulmonary metastases. The third case was an abdominal neuroblastoma
stage L2. The 3D model was of high value for planning and as a reference during the
intervention. The last case is a cervico-thoracic neuroblastoma with an anatomopathological
diagnosis of ganglioneuroma, located at the cervico-mediastinal juncture, in close
relationship with the cervical vessels.
Conclusions 3D reconstruction and the full-scale printing models are a useful tool in cases of
complex tumor resections as they contribute to a better understanding of the relationships
between the tumor and adjacent organs, helping to anticipate certain surgical complications.
They also provide additional information to conventional imaging tests, being able
to influence therapeutic decisions and facilitate the understanding by the family,
improving doctor–patient communication.
Keywords
virtual reconstruction - 3D printing - stereolithography - oncology - pediatrics
