title: Three-dimensional replica of a life-sized model of aortic arch aneurysm for preoperative assessments.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In the treatment of extended distal aortic arch aneurysms with open stent grafting, detailed preoperative minute evaluation is essential to determine the optimal operative strategy and reduce the incidence of complications. We describe a three-dimensional replica of a life-sized aortic arch aneurysm model for aiding preoperative assessments.
  
  
  METHODS
  Life-sized replicas of an aortic arch aneurysm were made for 4 patients who underwent total aortic arch replacement with open stent-grafting. These replicas were used to determine the curve of the CLATE, a newly developed open stent delivery system (Senko Medical Instrument Mfg, Co, Ltd, Tokyo, Japan), and the depth of the open stent grafting. The replica and the CLATE system were also used to obtain informed consent from the patients.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Surgeons could simulate the operative procedure precisely. Insertion of the graft was smooth in all patients. Use of the replica made it easier for the patients to understand the form and site of the aneurysm, as well as the operative procedure.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The combination of the three-dimensional replica and the CLATE system may be useful for both surgeons and patients in the treatment of extended distal aortic arch aneurysms.
authors.affiliation: Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan. junichi.shimamura@gmail.com
authors.forename: Junichi
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Shimamura
authors.forename: Hiroshi
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Kubota
authors.forename: Hidehito
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Endo
authors.forename: Hiroshi
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Tsuchiya
authors.forename: Norimichi
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Kawashima
authors.forename: Kenichi
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Sudo
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017545:Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery*; D019917:Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation / Q000379:methods*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006085:Graft Survival; D006801:Humans; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D007564:Japan; D008297:Male; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D011300:Preoperative Care / Q000379:methods; D011859:Radiography; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012494:Sampling Studies; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D015607:Stents; D016896:Treatment Outcome