The Role of Three-dimensional Printer Modeling in Preoperative Planning of Brain Tumor and Aneurysm Surgery

Introduction: The three-dimensional (3D) modeling technique, which is one of the latest technologies, has been applied in neurosurgical practice. The surgeon's knowledge and experience are crucial for the success of the surgical treatment of brain tumors and brain aneurysms. This study emphasizes that the contribution to successful surgery is by ensuring that the surgeon is fully oriented before and during the operation. Methods: The study included five patients with brain tumors and five patients with hemorrhagic aneurysm, which were diagnosed between May 2021 and November 2022. Both patient groups were evaluated retrospectively, and all operations were performed by the same experienced surgeon. 3D models of the patients were prepared using a computer program. These models were examined by the operating surgeon during the preoperative period and were sterilized and used as a guide during the operation. Results: The patients were divided into two groups, one composed of five patients undergoing surgery with the diagnosis of a tumor and the other composed of five patients undergoing surgery due to a ruptured aneurysm. All operations were performed by the same experienced surgeon. Successful clipping was performed in all patients with ruptured aneurysms. Conclusion: Surgeons have been analyzing complex neuroanatomy data using the 3D modeling technique before surgery. The preoperative simulation improved the surgeon's command of the field and orientation to the surgery. These findings suggest that 3D modeling will positively affect a successful surgical operation and the management of complications that may occur. More prospective randomized studies are needed to confirm these findings.