Aortic aneurysm: construction of a life-size model by rapid prototyping

Ann Vasc Surg. 2001 Mar;15(2):131-5. doi: 10.1007/s100160010054. Epub 2001 Mar 1.

Abstract

Development of new endovascular techniques for repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) requires the use of experimental models. Stereolithography is a rapid prototyping technique used in industry to prototype parts during the design phase. A stereolithography apparatus (STL) employs laser technology to build a digital model layer by layer with photopolymer resin. The purpose of this study was to use this technology to produce a life-size AAA model. Data were acquired by CT scan and stored in DICOM 3 format. Specifically designed software was used for 3-D imaging and conversion of data to a standard STL format. Two replicas were made: one to scale and the other 3 mm larger. The final model was made by pouring silicone rubber or polyurethane into the mold over the life-size model so as to obtain a sturdy, life-size, soft, transparent plastic casting. Arterial models made for living subjects with these rapid prototyping techniques can be used to simulate surgical procedures, calibrate imaging modalities, and design new stent grafts.

MeSH terms

  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / diagnosis
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / surgery*
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation
  • Computer Simulation
  • Computer-Aided Design*
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional*
  • Models, Anatomic*
  • Polyurethanes
  • Silicone Elastomers
  • Stents
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*

Substances

  • Polyurethanes
  • Silicone Elastomers