Hershey, Pa.-based Penn State Children's Hospital is using a 3D model of patients' hearts to better understand their treatment options.
The model is generated from data collected during a patient's CT scan or MRI and lets physicians study a 3D replica of the heart and blood vessels unique to that patient. The model lets the medical team and families be as prepared as possible before a child has surgery or another treatment intervention.
"This technology improves our ability to counsel families in a meaningful and compassionate way," said Robert Tunks, MD, a pediatric cardiologist at Penn State Children's. "It's such a valuable resource for us and one that directly benefits the patients we care for."
The 3D models are also excellent tools for teaching anatomy to medical students and residents, said Randy Haluck, MD, who has been involved with the center's surgery innovation group for the last decade.