Brain structure segmentation and 3D printed individual craniometric rulers for cortex brain lesions

Abstract

Pre-operative visualization and three-dimensional (3D) printing have gained much interest in the state-of-the-medicine. This technical note describes the technique for searching and resection of superficial cerebral cortical lesions. The method involves the creation of a patient-specific virtual model of cerebral cortex and 3D printing of an individual craniometric ruler (ICR) for skin incision marking. The benefits and limitations of ICR printing versus frameless neuronavigation are discussed. In addition, we outline the usage of surgical guides in the neurosurgical practice.

Keywords

• 3D printing
• Additive manufacturing
• Surgical planning
• Surgical simulation