The aim of the 3D Center of Semmelweis University is to research the possibilities offered by modern computer technology from a medical point of view and to use the acquired knowledge in patient care, using DICOM files from CT, MRI, or ultrasound images. In addition to 3D design, we also have the ability to symulate dynamic variables, called finite element method/ analysis. With the help of the created models (interdisciplinary medical consultation), we can help the communication between the different disciplines, and even the developed models can be used as a tool for surgical decision support, thus helping to make personalized therapeutic decisions. The Medical3D website was created for the virtual display of the created models and for the presentation of the works of the 3D Center at Semmelweis University. We have started to use 3D models in both undergraduate and graduate education from the 2019 academic year. Major medical areas where 3D models are used regularly:
3D MODELS
On the website, under the Projects tab You can find the created 3D models, grouped according to the specializations. Each 3D model presented on the website depicts a real anatomy situation where 3D design and visualization helped with that during the surgery.
By clicking on these types of windows on the website, You can view 3D models that can be rotated in virtual space and any area can be enlarged as desired. For some models, You can find markings (numbers) on the models, clicking on them will display the explanation for the given anatomy situation.
3D PRINTING
In some cases, we print the 3D models. In this case, each part part of the complex model are printed separately with fifferent colors corresponding to the anatomy structures. Consistently, the arteries are printed in red, the veins in dark blue while the airways are printed in light blue. The individual parts are held together by magnets, providing a more accurate overview and a better understanding of the particular anatomical structure. It is also possible to print on medical metal (titanium) and sterilizable – so-called mediacal grade – plastic. In this way, implantable implants or surgical guides tailored to a person or surgical situation can be printed.
SIMULATIONS
With the development of computer technology, engineering simulations are becoming an increasing opportunity in medicine. Over the past five years, fluid flow and mechanical predictions with finite element analysis have been constantly evolving and are being used in more and more places in patient care. With these methods, it is possible to more accurately predict the impact of a given intervention on the human body. On the other hand, medical interventions can be “fine-tuned” in order to perform the most appropriate intervention.
AUGMENTED REALITY
New option to create the created 3D model in the virtual space (VR – Virtual reality) or by extending reality (AR – Augmented Reality) for educational or patient care purposes. The surgery presented in the following video was performed at the Pediatric Cardiac Surgery of the György Gottsegen National Institute of Cardiology, where the virtual model was projected onto the chest of a half-year-old child (AR) to help determine the patient’s chest opening position. During surgery, the virtual model was used to help identify and reconstruct complicated developmental abnormalities of the pulmonary arteries (MAPCA) during surgery. Using augmented reality, a safer procedure can be performed in the operating room, especially in complex cases
COMPLEX SOLUTIONS
The opportunities listed in bellow themselves represent a new and hitherto not fully exploited field of engineering in medicine and patient care. However, tools and procedures created with a combination of these techniques can represent a completely new opportunity, or the existing therapeutic procedure can be improved, using the engineering tools. Ensuring safe and personalized patient care. In the video presented here, we printed a custom-made targeting device for artificial heart implantation, during the tools the design we calcualted the blood flow parameters of the given patient and the changes of the flow after the operation. Learn more about the 3D Print Targeting Tool itself here: LINK
OKTATÁS
In cooperation between Semmelweis University and Pázmány Péter Catholic University, an English course was launched from the 2019 academic year, entitled: Biomedical Innovation for the XI. century. Within the course, students will have the opportunity to learn about the engineering aspects of different medical disciplines. Gathering relevant information about the potential of modern technology and their potential medical application.