3D Printing to Improve Patient Outcomes : An Analysis on Mini-Thoracotomy Aortic Valve Replacements

Abstract

Aortic valve replacement (AVR) was established in the 1960’s and has become a routine therapy to treat patients with severe aortic valve dysfunction. AVR is usually performed using a full sternotomy and cardiopulmonary bypass support. Since the late 1990’s, minimally invasive procedures have been developed for aortic valve surgeries, such as the mini-thoracotomy AVR. These less invasive procedures claim reduced post-operative complications, shorter lengths of stays in the hospital, and lower mortality. This project will provide the 3D printing capabilities needed to investigate if using 3D printed anatomical models result in better patient outcomes for minithoracotomy AVR surgery. The 3D printed models will also be used for educational purposes with providers at Mayo Clinic.