Shaping and application of microcatheters based on 3D-printed hollow aneurysm model: A pilot feasibility study

To evaluate the application of a hollow 3D-printed aneurysm model based on CTA data in microcatheter shaping METHODS: Using CTA data for 28 patients with 31 aneurysms, transparent hollow 3D models of the aneurysms were printed using a 3D printer. Microcatheters were shaped and validated in vitro using the models. The preshaped microcatheters were used for interventional coiling, and the accuracy and stability of the microcatheters during the procedure were evaluated.Thirty preshaped microcatheters were successfully advanced toward the aneurysm sac and showed good alignment with the patient's anatomy. Twenty-two of the microcatheters automatically jumped into the sac, eight required microwire guidance, and one failed. Among the successful cases, 26 remained stable during coiling and four prolapsed from the sac.The hollow 3D-printed model provided more profound anatomic information for precise shaping of microcatheters, increasing their stability during coiling.