Novel Application of Rapid Prototyping for Simulation of Bronchoscopic Anatomy

ObjectiveThe authors used rapid prototyping (RP) technology to create anatomically congruent models of tracheo-bronchial tree for teaching relevant bronchoscopic anatomy.DesignPilot study.SettingA single level tertiary academic medical center.InterventionsTwo 3 dimensional (3D) models of tracheo-bronchial tree (one showing normal anatomy and another with an early take off of right apical bronchus) were recreated from Computed Tomographic images using RP technology. These images were then attached to mannequins and examined with a flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope (FFB). These images were then compared with the actual FFB images obtained during lung isolation.Measurements and Main ResultsThe images obtained through the 3D models were found to be congruent to actual patient anatomy.ConclusionsRP can be successfully used to create anatomically accurate models from imaging studies. There is potential for RP to become a valuable educational tool in the future.