Gaining insights into anatomical intricacies of ccTGA using patient-specific 3D solutions

Dr. Ala Al-Lawati, Head of the Cardiac Surgery Department at the National Heart Centre of the Royal Hospital in the Sultanate of Oman, uses Axial3D solutions in the field of paediatric cardiac surgery.

Case
This case study presents a patient with Congenitally Corrected Transposition of the Great Arteries (ccTGA), Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) and Pulmonary Stenosis (PS). Having previously received a Blalock-Taussig (BT) shunt, the patient required further surgical interventions involving Mustard and Rastelli procedures to address the ccTGA and associated issues.

Solution

For a complete understanding of the patient's cardiac structure, Dr. Ala Al-Lawati asked for an extensive 3D visualization file and a 1:1 scale 3D printed anatomical model. It allowed the surgeon to observe the intricate details of the heart's structures and its spatial relationships in a three-dimensional context, thereby enhancing decision-making during the surgical procedure. With the additional aid of these resources, the surgeon effectively performed the combined Mustard and Rastelli procedures, resulting in decreased surgical time and a mitigated risk of complications.

‘In cases as complex as this, I require precise knowledge of the heart's anatomy during pre-operative planning. When I review the 3D anatomical model, I gain a clear understanding of what I need to do, confirming my findings and allowing me to proceed confidently with the surgery.’

– Dr. Ala Al-Lawati

Employing patient-specific 3D solutions aided the surgeon in gaining a deeper understanding of the patient's unique case, leading to a successful intervention that effectively navigated complex anatomical intricacies. As a result, the patient experienced a swift recovery and was discharged within a week following the surgery.

This case emphasizes the significance of advanced, patient-specific 3D solutions in addressing complicated congenital heart anomalies. It also showcases the effectiveness of customized surgical strategies in managing complex anatomical intricacies.

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