Customization of Computed Tomography Radio-Opacity in 3D-Printed Contrast-Injectable Tumor Phantoms

TL;DR

Researchers developed a customizable 3D-printed tumor phantom that can be adjusted after printing to mimic different tissue densities in CT scans.

Contribution

The study introduces a contrast-injectable 3D-printed phantom that allows post-manufacturing customization of CT attenuation values.

Findings

The phantom achieved a physiologic range of CT attenuation values through contrast injection.

Observed attenuation values correlated strongly with contrast concentration.

Relative HU differences between phantom phases matched target values despite absolute deviations.

Abstract

Medical Imaging Phantoms (MIPs) calibrate imaging devices, train medical professionals, and can help procedural planning. Traditional MIPs are costly and limited in customization. Additive manufacturing allows for customizable, patient-specific phantoms. This study examines the CT attenuation characteristics of contrast-injectable, chambered 3D-printed phantoms to optimize tissue-mimicking capabilities. A MIP was constructed from a CT of a complex pelvic tumor near the iliac bifurcation. A 3D reconstruction of these structures composed of three chambers (aorta, inferior vena cava, tumor) with ports for contrast injection was 3D printed. Desired attenuations were 200 HU (arterial I), 150 HU (venous I), 40 HU (tumor I), 150 HU (arterial II), 90 HU (venous II), and 400 HU (tumor II). Solutions of Optiray 350 and water were injected, and the phantom was scanned on CT. Attenuations were measured using ROIs. Mean attenuation for the six phases was as follows: 37.49 HU for tumor I, 200.50 HU for venous I, 227.92 HU for arterial I, 326.20 HU for tumor II, 91.32 HU for venous II, and 132.08 HU for arterial II. Although the percent differences between observed and goal attenuation were high, the observed relative HU differences between phases were similar to goal HU differences. The observed attenuations reflected the relative concentrations of contrast solutions used, exhibiting a strong positive correlation with contrast concentration. The contrast-injectable tumor phantom exhibited a useful physiologic range of attenuation values, enabling the modification of tissue-mimicking 3D-printed phantoms even after the manufacturing process.

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