Evolving Methods and Application of a 3D Printed Model in the Current Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap Elevation.

Background: The choice of the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap for breast reconstruction has increased. Three-dimensional (3D) models of DIEP flaps have been introduced with advances in 3D technology to assist the tedious intramuscular dissection of the pedicle. This study presents the process of creating an ideal 3D model for a DIEP flap.

Methods: Collaboration among various professionals, including surgeons, radiologists, and 3D-printing model makers, is essential for manufacturing suitable 3D-printing DIEP models. Our team facilitated the collaboration process by sharing the virtual 3D model via a uniform resource locator (URL) using an online platform accessible on mobile devices.

Results: During collaboration in 3D DIEP model-making, we continuously upgraded the model to a better version. The model was modified according to the surgeon's preference from a 1:1 ratio size to a handheld size. Additionally, we achieved significant advancements over conventional methods, including improved visualization of detailed vessel pathways with separation of arteries and veins, tissue transparency, and superficial inferior epigastric vein (SIEV).

Conclusions: Through 3D model-making collaborations, our team successfully developed a 3D DIEP model with translucency and visualized arteries and veins separately with accentuation of the perforators, including SIEV tracing, which is more accurate. This ideal 3D model for the DIEP flap enables the selection of a perforator vessel that is safe and easy to dissect to lower complications and procedure time and will be of great help to less experienced surgeons.