CHOP Radiology and Urology Collaborate on 3-D Printing Method to Build Pediatric Urology Models

Published on

CHOP Radiology and Urology Collaborate on 3-D Printing Method to Build Pediatric Urology Models The Children’s Hospital Additive Manufacturing for Pediatrics (CHAMP) 3D Lab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is on the cutting-edge of three-dimensional (3-D) technology. CHOP’s use of 3-D imaging and printing for surgical planning, virtual simulation, and creation of custom biomedical devices has improved outcomes and changed children’s lives.

Recently, a team led by Elizabeth Silvestro, MSE, CHAMP 3D Lab Manager and Team Lead, published a research paper in the peer-reviewed journal Urology in which they review a genitourinary 3-D modeling and printing process using post-contrast MRI that they believe can help with pediatric urologic surgical planning.

CHOP Radiology and Urology Collaborate on 3-D Printing Method to Build Pediatric Urology Models Previous studies have described the effect of applying 3-D modeling and additive manufacturing to images taken from various radiology disciplines, as well as how such modeling can help plan treatment. However, as noted by the group, 3-D modeling and printing for urological applications hasn't been explored as much as it could be.

Silvestro’s group developed a process that converts multiphase contrast-enhanced MR images into merged 3-D renderings and printed models. They consulted with urologists and general surgeons, who reported that the models helped them better understand connections between anatomical structures and better plan surgical interventions. The model also provides a tangible depiction of the anatomy that can be used to explain the planned reconstruction when counseling patients and families.

Click here to learn more about this research and the team’s process for developing the models.


Next Steps
Mom holding infant daughter

Your Child's Urology Surgery

Find information to help you prepare for your child's upcoming urology surgery at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Boy smiling

Why Choose Us

The Division of Urology at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia is consistently ranked as one of the top pediatric urology programs in the nation.