Impact of 3D Model Use in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Shift in Surgical Perspective

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is defined as an abnormal thickening of the left ventricular myocardium, greater than 15 mm in one or more segments as measured by imaging modalities, in the absence of an identifiable secondary cause. The surgical treatment, the septal myectomy, remains the gold standard for invasive treatment. However, it is considered one of the most challenging surgeries, not only to learn, but also to teach. We identified four major challenges associated with HCM: the limited number of patients requiring surgical intervention, the limited intraoperative visibility, the heterogeneity of anatomical presentations, and the overall complexity in understanding the disease. 3D printing is a type of technology that converts virtual designs into physical objects through additive layering of materials. Approaching HCM with printed hearts allows to understand better the pathology and to guide the surgery by addressing the challenges associated with HCM. The application of 3D printing in HCM is a novel approach to understand the disease and planning surgery. This technology holds the potential to optimize preoperative strategies, enabling more precise resections and reducing perioperative complications.