EXTON, PA, EDEN PRAIRIE, MN, and REHOVOT, Israel — Ricoh USA, Inc. and Stratasys Ltd. recenlty announced the enrollment of the first patient in a pioneering clinical study. The research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of 3D printed models for preoperative planning and tumor excision in orthopedic oncology. This study will compare outcomes using patient-specific 3D printed anatomical models against the current standard that relies only on CT or MRI imaging.
The joint initiative seeks to improve surgical outcomes by reducing blood loss, shortening operating times, and minimizing procedural complications. The study will include two groups: one using 3D printed models combined with imaging, and another using imaging alone for preoperative planning.
Benefits for Medical Staff and Patients
3D printed models offer several advantages for both medical practitioners and patients. Surgeons can benefit from enhanced preoperative planning, making complex procedures more efficient and accurate. Unlike computer images, life-size physical replicas allow doctors to simulate surgeries, improving precision and reducing the likelihood of leaving cancerous tissue behind. This technology also helps doctors better communicate surgical plans to patients, potentially improving patient outcomes and speeding up recovery.
The year-long, multi-center randomized controlled study will involve up to 150 subjects across multiple sites. Currently, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Corewell Health in Michigan have agreed to participate.
“Our never-ending mission is to improve patient outcomes, and that starts with preoperative planning,” said Dr. Kyle K. VanKoevering, Associate Professor of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center. “We look forward to participating in this study to examine how 3D printed models may help the medical staff better prepare for surgery as well as improve patient education.”
“Being one of the sites to participate in this study puts us on the forefront of demonstrating new technologies that can advance patient care and improve health outcomes,” said Dr. Aws Hammad, clinical faculty of orthopaedic surgery at Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital. “Addressing the challenges that come along with bone sarcomas and utilizing the power of patient-specific 3D modeling is a significant step in not only patient education but as an aid to surgeons for more precise surgical procedures.”
This clinical study marks a significant advancement in the use of 3D printed models in medical practice, promising to enhance surgical precision and improve patient care.
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