Three‐dimensional printing enhances preparation for repair of double outlet right ventricular surgery

Objective To assess the clinical value of three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology for treatment strategies for complex double outlet right ventricle (DORV). Methods Twenty‐five patients with complex double outlet right ventricle were enrolled in this study. The patients were divided into two groups: 3D printing group (eight patients) and a non‐3‐D printing control group (17 patients). The cardiac images of patients in the 3D printing group were transformed to Digital Imaging and Communications and were segmented and reconstructed to create a heart model. No cardiac models were created in the control group. A Pearson coefficient analysis was used to assess the correlation between measurements of 3D printed models and computed tomography angiography (CTA) data. Pre‐operative assessment and planning were performed with 3D printed models, and then operative time and recovery time were compared between the two groups. Results There was good correlation (r = 0.977) between 3D printed models and CTA data. Patients in the 3D printing group had shorter aortic cross‐clamp time (102.88 vs 127.76 min, P = 0.094) and cardiopulmonary bypass time (151.63 vs 184.24 min; P = 0.152) than patients in the control group. Patients with 3D printed models had significantly lower mechanical ventilation time (56.43 vs 96.76 h, P = 0.040) and significantly shorter intensive care unit time (99.04 vs 166.94 h, P = 0.008) than patients in the control group. Conclusions 3D printed models can accurately demonstrate anatomic structures and are useful for pre‐operative treatment strategies in DORV.