Usefulness of Preoperative Simulation Using a Stereolithographic 3D Printer in Cerebral Aneurysm Coil Embolization

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: We present a preoperative simulation of cerebral aneurysm coil embolization using a hollow model of cerebral blood vessels created by a stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer. CASE PRESENTATION: The patient was a 66-year-old woman. During follow-up, coil embolization was planned for an expanding paraclinoid aneurysm. A hollow cerebral vascular model was created preoperatively using an SLA 3D printer. The catheter was malleable and inserted into the hollow model, which enabled the surgeons to confirm its movement, stability, and ease of insertion. In the surgical procedure, the catheter was easily inserted into the aneurysm without reshaping. The procedure was completed without stability problems. CONCLUSION: The use of a hollow model of cerebral blood vessels was useful as a preoperative simulation and improved the safety of the procedure.