3D printed anatomical model reduces cost of complex surgery by $10,000

A surgeon in the UK has reduced the cost of a complex surgical procedure by $10,000 with the help of a 3D printed anatomical model.

Spinal Surgeon, Mr Andrew Bowey, of Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, recently treated a patient suffering from Spina Bifida and a severe kyphotic deformity, a spinal disorder in which an excessive outward curve of the spine results in an abnormal rounding of the upper back.

The increasing deformity and the inability to sit or lie comfortably was causing huge discomfort for the patient.

The surgeon had an exact replica model of the patient’s spine 3D printed by axial3D from his patient’s medical scans. This aided pre-operative planning, as to understanding the possibility of conducting a shortening osteotomy, and the best place to do so. The model was also used to give the surgeon and his clinical team enhanced insight into which pedicles were viable for screw positioning.

“As a clinician, I don’t have the time, or the software to segment the medical images. Knowing the team at axial3D can segment exactly what I need is a huge benefit for me and my team.”

Spinal Surgeon, Mr Andrew Bowey, of Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust

With access to the 3D printed model, the clinical team was able to counsel the patient and family. It also ensured the list was planned accordingly, which supported a reduced theatre time of over 2 hours and reduced blood loss in the patient.

The two-hours+ saving of time in the operating theatre reduced the cost of the surgery by $10,000, and the reduced blood loss and better communication with the surgical team resulted in a better experience for the patient.