Three-dimensional printed cardiac fistulae: a case series

Background Three-dimensional ( 3D) printingof cardiac fistulae allows for immediate understanding of their complex courses and anatomical relations. Modelscan be used to improve patient understanding, enhance the consenting process, facilitate communicationbetween multidisciplinary staff at heart team meetings, and help plan surgical or percutaneous interventions. Case summary We report four cases where 3D printedmodels were used as an adjunct with traditional measures in treating patients with complex cardiac fistulae. Discussion In our cases, overall patient understanding was improved, staff at heart team meetings were more aware of anatomical anomalies and perioperatively planning saw adjustments made that may have ultimately benefited patient outcome. Our cases highlight the additional benefit that 3D printedmodels can play when treating patients with complex cardiac fistulae.