3D printing model can reduce operation time and risk

The deployment of 3D printed anatomical patient models and surgical guides may greatly reduce the time and medical expenses spent in the operating room.

This is based on a new study published in Academic Radiology last week. Based on a review of several past analyses, the researchers estimate that this anatomical model can save $3,700 per case by reducing the operation time, while the surgical guide can save nearly $1,500. “Medical 3D Printing seems to shorten the operation time and thereby reduce operating room costs,” wrote David H. Ballard, MD, of the Marlin Cross School of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and colleagues. “Although the resource-intensive 3D printed structures used for patient surgical care provide considerable downstream value for the health system.” By analyzing more than 30 different studies related to 3D models used in plastic surgery and maxillofacial surgery, the author gained Come to my own conclusion. According to the review, they estimate that the anatomical model can shorten the operation time by an average of about 62 minutes, at a cost of $62 per minute. At the same time, the use of 3D printed surgical guides can save about 23 minutes of surgical time. Surgeons often use 3D printed structures to help guide their work. However, the author points out that third-party insurance companies usually do not provide such assistance. Typical uses of these models include preoperative planning, guidance during surgery, training of medical interns, and informing patients about their care.

The author believes that although these services have not been reimbursed in history, 3D printed anatomical models can pay for themselves, making surgeons and programmers “full of confidence” in their ability to perform complex procedures, which are usually poorly understood. As the program time is shortened, costs are saved. With these savings, the researchers said that developing a financial model to fund the use of these surgical aids “should be of interest to those health care systems and radiology departments that are considering implementing 3D Printing laboratories or services.” The team added that industry trade organizations’ interest in this topic is growing. Last fall, the American Medical Association’s current program terminology editing team approved the creation of four new CPT codes to track and detail the use of models and guidelines throughout the United States. The American College of Radiology and RSNA worked together to propose these new codes, the author pointed out. The two entities will also launch a medical 3D printing registry this fall to collect data on points of care and further record the use and implementation of these models.