Abu Dhabi: Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of the M42 group, collaborated with NYU Abu Dhabi to use cutting-edge 3D printing technology for complex heart surgery on Mian Mohamed Shabbie, a 41-year-old patient with a rare cardiovascular anomaly.
This innovative technology, developed by NYU Abu Dhabi’s Core Technology Platform, is beneficial in various medical fields, including cardiovascular and neurological cases. The process involves three stages:
- 3D Image Reconstruction: Creating a digital model from diagnostic imaging data to provide a detailed patient anatomy framework.
- 3D Slicing: Offering a detailed analysis of individual structures and organs.
- 3D Printing: Building a physical replica of the patient’s anatomy for pre-surgical planning and simulation.
Shabbie was referred to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi with complications from a birth defect of the aorta. His aorta had a right-sided arch with a rare aneurysm called Kommerell’s diverticulum, presenting significant surgical challenges.
Dr. Houssam Younes, Department Chair for Vascular Surgery at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, noted that Kommerell’s diverticulum is rare, especially with a right-sided aortic arch, seen in only 0.03% of people worldwide. Its asymptomatic nature often delays detection, requiring high expertise for surgical intervention.
Dr. Yazan Aljabery, a Cardiac Surgeon at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, explained that typical cases with a left-arching aorta are more accessible for surgery. However, with a right-arching aorta, the defect is obscured by other large vessels, making the procedure more challenging. The 3D-printed model enhances safety and precision in such complex surgeries.
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is recognized as a Centre of Excellence for Adult Cardiac Surgery by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH). Their research demonstrates that this 3D printing technology is valuable beyond cardiovascular and neurological applications, potentially benefiting other medical fields with complex anatomical structures.
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