Madrid, 1 February 2024. The Surgical Oncology team at MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid incorporates 3D modelling technology in planning its operations with the aim of achieving more precise and complete tumour resections, improving patient safety by helping to avoid possible complications. The Spanish company Cella has reached an agreement with the Hospiten Group, owner of MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid, the only European subsidiary of the world's leading cancer treatment centre MD Anderson Houston, to use its anatomical models, both virtual and 3D printed, in complex surgeries.
"This technology opens a new horizon in complex cancer surgery. Being able to study each case in depth with three-dimensional models, having them available even in the surgical field, assessing the performance of risky surgical steps with potential damage to adjacent structures, provides an added value unimaginable until now," says Dr Santiago González, Medical Director and Head of the Surgical Oncology Service.
Three-dimensional technology, which allows the creation of specific anatomical models of individual patients, helps to reduce intraoperative complications in cancer surgery and contributes to increased procedural success, according to recent scientific evidence. This is confirmed by more than 400 scientific publications that support the clinical use of 3D modelling technology.
It has helped to improve surgical planning in numerous indications, such as neuroblastomas, lung metastases, kidney tumours, hepatobiliary tumours, pancreatic, rectal and colon tumours, among others. Scientific organisations such as the Royal College of Surgeons recommend the use of 3D technology as a necessary tool in the planning of complex operations.
Improvements for the patient with 3D models
Virtual 3D images of the patient's anatomy are not only useful for guiding surgeons in their surgical strategy but are also translated into physical 3D printed models. This life-size depiction of the patient's structures facilitates the explanation and understanding of the procedures to be carried out for both the medical team and the patients themselves.
Three-dimensional models provide a 3D view, allowing surgeons to anticipate the patient's anatomy. This helps them to resolve doubts before the operation, improving the surgical strategy, reducing risks for the patient and increasing efficiency in complex surgeries. Darío García, CEO of Cella, highlights that "3D models focus on the specific needs of surgeons, providing a high clinical and technological value to resolve doubts during the planning of complex surgeries and contributing to the patient's health."
The Cella 3D models involve multidisciplinary teams of engineers, mathematicians and physicists together with medical imaging technicians and radiologists.
To create these models, specialists first receive medical images and radiological reports anonymously via their Web platform. Next, technicians and radiologists analyse and identify the anatomical structures using artificial intelligence and advanced algorithms. The resulting model is delivered on a platform with tools to support surgical planning and, optionally, surgeons can request a physical model using 3D printing.