According to a study in Spine, 3D-printed vertebral body and segmental spine models accurately mimic human tissue on C-arm fluoroscopic images.
Here are four things to know:
1. The Barrow Biomimetic Spine project aims to develop a 3D-printed synthetic spine model to replace cadaveric tissue in spine research.
2. Researchers 3D-printed several L5 vertebral bodies with variable shell thicknesses and internal densities. Study authors then printed an L3 to L5 segment and obtained fluoroscopic films at various C-arm angles.
3. Pedicle screws were placed into the L3 to L5 segment to demonstrate successful or breached placement. Standard anteroposterior and lateral films were taken.
4. Three spine surgeons scored the images for human fidelity. Surgeon identification of screw placement on the AP and lateral fluoroscopic views yielded almost-perfect fidelity.
“These spine models have the potential to serve as an excellent platform for future research and surgical education programs,” the study authors concluded.