3D printed model aiding in minimally invasive thoracoabdominal ganglioneuroblastoma resection: A case report

The creation of 3D models of tumors and their surrounding structures is becoming a useful tool for preoperative and intraoperative surgical planning. This case details the presentation and on-cologic course of a 2.5-year old female patient with a thoracoabdominal ganglioneuroblastoma. Upon initial diagnosis, her tumor was encasing the aorta and abutting the left renal vein and was not a candidate for resection. She underwent alternative therapy for several years that was not standard of care before returning to our institution. A 3D model of the tumor was created based on pre-operative computerized tomography (CT) images, and the physical model demonstrated clear planes and lack of invasion into surrounding structures, making surgical resection an op-tion. The 3D model was then utilized as a guide intraoperatively for the laparoscopic operation during difficult portions of the case. The tumor was successfully removed in entirety, and the pa-tient was discharged following an uneventful post-operative course. The use of 3D printing in a pediatric abdominal oncologic case is novel, and could be a beneficial tool in future cases to com-plement a minimally invasive surgical approach.