3D printed models in pregnancy and its utility in improving psychological constructs: a case series

Abstract

Background: 3D printing is being utilized in almost every aspect of medicine. 3D printing has especially been used in conjunction with 3D ultrasonography to assist in antenatal assessment and presurgical planning with fetal malformations. As printing capabilities improve and applications are explored there may be more advantages for all parents to visualize and touch 3D printed models of their fetus. Case presentation: We present three cases involving 3D printed models and four different but interrelated psychological constructs- antenatal depression, antenatal anxiety, maternal-fetal attachment, and paternal-fetal attachment. Each case shows for the first time possible beneficial effects within these prevalent and significant problems. Conclusions: The degree to which the anxiety, depression, and attachment scores improved after the presentation of the 3D printed models is encouraging. Randomized controlled trials utilizing 3D printed models to improve psychological constructs should be supported considering the findings within these four cases.