Pelvic bone tumor resection: what a radiologist needs to know

Experience in utilizing a novel 3D digital model with CT and MRI fusion data in sarcoma evaluation and surgical planning

OBJECTIVE

To assess sarcoma margins with more accuracy and aid surgical planning, we constructed three-dimensional (3D) digital models with computed tomography(CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) image fusion data and validated the preciseness of the models by comparing them with 3D models constructed with CT only data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed a consecutive set of patients treated in our center who were preoperatively evaluated with the fusion image model. Models based on fusion images or CT-only data were constructed. Volumes of both tumors were calculated and the tumors were overlapped to see the location of differences between the two models.

RESULTS

A consecutive 12 cases (4 male vs. 8 female) were included in this study. Most of the tumors were located in the pelvic bone or spine. The volume of the two tumor models was different and the differences were mainly in the peripheral region of the tumor.

CONCLUSION

CT and MRI fusion image 3D models are more accurate than models with CT-only data and can be very helpful in preoperative planning of sarcoma patients.

3D printing applications in spine surgery: an evidence-based assessment toward personalized patient care

PURPOSE

Spine surgery entails a wide spectrum of complicated pathologies. Over the years, numerous assistive tools have been introduced to the modern neurosurgeon's armamentarium including neuronavigation and visualization technologies. In this review, we aimed to summarize the available data on 3D printing applications in spine surgery as well as an assessment of the future implications of 3D printing.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive review of the literature on 3D printing applications in spine surgery.

RESULTS

Over the past decade, 3D printing and additive manufacturing applications, which allow for increased precision and customizability, have gained significant traction, particularly spine surgery. 3D printing applications in spine surgery were initially limited to preoperative visualization, as 3D printing had been primarily used to produce preoperative models of patient-specific deformities or spinal tumors. More recently, 3D printing has been used intraoperatively in the form of 3D customizable implants and personalized screw guides.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite promising preliminary results, the applications of 3D printing are so recent that the available data regarding these new technologies in spine surgery remains scarce, especially data related to long-term outcomes.

Cranial internal hemipelvectomy (iliectomy) with limb sparing for a dog with ilial chondrosarcoma: A case report

Cranial internal hemipelvectomy can be successful for excision of ilial CSA with minimal complications. Iliectomy with adjuvant radiation therapy was well tolerated in a dog with grade II ilial CSA. The dog survived 1,271 days postoperatively and supposedly succumbed to a disease process unrelated to the CSA.

Sacral tumours and their mimics: pictorial review and diagnostic strategy

Sacral tumours encompass an extensive range of differential diagnosis. The clinical presentation is often non-specific, including neurological deficits and low back pain. Accurate diagnosis of sacral lesions is challenging and requires a comprehensive imaging strategy and robust knowledge on the imaging characteristics of different pathological processes. This review will provide an updated overview of the computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and integrated positron-emission tomography (PET)-CT features of some common and rare sacral tumours and their mimics. Several clinical scenarios with specific diagnostic considerations and treatment implications will be described.