subject: Spinal Issues - Spine Models Give Orthopaedic Surgeons a Well-Rounded View [print this page] Spinal Issues - Spine Models Give Orthopaedic Surgeons a Well-Rounded View
When surgery that involves delicate and precise technique is called for, many orthopaedic surgeons have found the use of three-dimensional models to be of extreme help. With these devices, surgeons can get a well-rounded view of the patient's injury for planning and preparing surgical procedures. Before this important medical device was created, surgeons relied solely on CT scans and MRI's. With the new 3-D model being used as a diagnostic tool, they can provide valuable information in diagnosing certain injuries and diseases, since they give the surgeon an up-close and in-depth realistic view of the area of concern.
Three-dimensional models are created by medical stereolithographers who are experts in this field. With the use of a MRI scan or CT scan, the stereolithographer can duplicate a 3-D model that is exactly like the anatomy of the patient. The accuracy of the model is within 1/35th of a millimeter. This allows the surgeon to hold the model and inspect the area of concern closely, which otherwise can only be evaluated with imaging results. These 3-D models can be made for any skeletal part including the skull and spine.
Not only does this new and innovative medical tool allow the spinal surgeon to analysis and diagnosis orthopedic conditions, it also is valuable in the practicing and review of exactly what the orthopaedic surgery will involve. Doctors can do a dry run of the procedure before the actual surgery, which can reduce the margin of error extremely and reduce the amount of time the surgery would normally take. This provides the patient with much lower costs of operating room and surgical team fees as well as anesthesiologist and surgeon fees. Patients are also under anesthesia for a shorter amount of time, helping to reduce the risks of complications.
With the use of 3-D models being so beneficial to patients and spinal surgeons, this incredible invention will soon be a common orthopedic tool for doctors. With these devices able to identify defects that may not be found with traditional imaging devices, doctors will be able to provide a more thorough and accurate diagnosis. They also are being used as educational tools to help patients understand exactly what the spinal injury is and how it will be surgically corrected. These models are being found to be very beneficial to patients with thoracic, lumbar and cervical spine disorders as well as individuals who suffer with lordosis, spondylosis, spondylitis, kyphosis, spina bifida and stenosis. They can also be very beneficial for patients who require back surgery such as laminectomy or repair of a spinal cord injury.
