Systemic Ventricular Assist Device Insertion Planning Using Cardiac 3D Printing and Virtual Reality Imaging

Introduction: 3D printing and virtual reality (VR) imaging allow three dimensional visualization understanding and simulation of complex congenital heart anomalies (CHD). We present a case in which 3D printing and VR imaging were combined for optimal planning of cardiac intervention.

Patient Description: We describe a case of a 15 year old patient with corrected transposition of the great arteries and Ebstenoid tricuspid valve suffering from severe heart failure, in which the Berlin Heart assist device cannulation to the systemic atrium or ventricle posed a difficult challenge according to standard imaging.

Methods: 3D printing was done using the standard CT scan DIACOM images. These were edited and sent to a Stratasys 3D printer which produced a model made of a photopolymer which characteristics resemble the human myocardial tissue. The VR imaging was produced out of the same CT scan using the Data to print (D2P) software by 3D systems.

Results: 3D printing showed possible cannulation options in the LA and the anterior part of the systemic right ventricle, and allowed its simulation. The VR imaging verified these findings and assisted in planning the position and the angle of the cannules with in the chest cavity.

Conclusion: This case proved that the combination of these two methods resulted in a comprehensive picture allowing tailored treatment which was evidently successful.