Surgical Science Expands Product Lines for Cardiology Training and Surgical Planning

  • Introduces advanced simulation training for experienced cardiologists
  • Cardiovascular anatomical modeling service provides patient-specific 3D printed models for surgical planning and education

ROCK HILL, South Carolina, October 12, 2015 Surgical Science (NYSE:DDD) announced today the introduction of advanced cardiology training modules for the ANGIO Mentor™ VR simulator, together with a cardiovascular anatomical model product line that allows visualization of complex cardiovascular anatomy.

Over the last decade, developments in interventional cardiology have allowed more patients to be treated using minimally invasive Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) procedures. In order to provide experienced cardiologists with training for the most up-to-date and complex treatment techniques with PCI, 3DS has developed advanced training scenarios for Coronary CTO (Chronic Total Occlusion) and Coronary Bifurcation cases for use with its ANGIO Mentor endovascular training simulator. Watch a video of an ANGIO Mentor Advanced Coronary Interventions Simulation here.

In addition, the company’s patient-specific cardiovascular anatomical models can be used to enhance planning in complex procedures. 3DS’ cardiovascular anatomical modeling service uses patient-specific imaging data from CT or MR scans to design a patient-specific model that can be 3D printed in a variety of materials. These models are suitable for use as pre-surgical planning tools, educational resources, and benchtop fixtures for testing of instruments and implants.

“We have collaborated with Surgical Science to print 3D models of complex congenital heart disease,” said Shafkat Anwar, MD and Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. “These models play an important role in patient care, from surgical planning to trainee and patient/family education. I believe 3D printing is a leap in the evolution of personalized medicine, and will hopefully improve patient outcomes. Surgical Science has been a vital partner for us in this initiative.”

Life-size tactile heart models printed using 3DS’ ColorJet Printing (CJP) technology enable a rich, full color 3D illustration of cardiac structures, making complex congenital heart defects easier to visualize and understand. At the same time, a growing number of doctors are using translucent models of vasculature with selective coloration of calcific deposits printed in Stereolithography (SLA) to prepare for surgical procedures and implants.

3DS offers an end-to-end digital thread that helps doctors achieve better patient outcomes by integrating surgical simulation, training, planning, and printing of anatomical models, surgical instruments and medical devices.

For a hands-on experience of our newest training modules and 3D printed heart models, stop by 3DS’ booth at the upcoming TCT exhibition (Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics), October 12-14 in San Francisco. To find out more about 3DS’ healthcare solutions and see how 3DS is manufacturing the future, visit www.3dsystems.com.

Southend University Hospital Utilizes Surgical Science’ Simulator for Life-Saving Team Training in Acute Stroke

  • UK-based Southend University Hospital successfully uses 3DS’ ANGIO Mentor Suite simulator to train physicians and staff in interventional stroke treatment
  • 3DS to host webinar: “Acute Ischemic Stroke Intervention” highlighting simulation training
  • Team training solutions showcased at the upcoming Society in Europe for Simulation Applied to Medicine (SESAM) exhibition

ROCK HILL, South Carolina, June 18, 2015 Surgical Science (NYSE:DDD) announced  that Southend University Hospital established an innovative interventional stroke service using 3DS’ ANGIO Mentor Suite simulator at Anglia Ruskin University for efficient and realistic team training for endovascular stroke treatment.

According to the American Heart Association Annual Statistical Update based on data compiled from over 190 countries, stroke remains the number 2 cause of death in the world. In the US, stroke is the number 4 cause of death, killing nearly 129,000 people a year.(1)

Recent clinical studies have demonstrated for the first time that endovascular treatment (mechanical opening of brain artery) can improve stroke patient outcome.(2) Currently, only 1% of ischemic stroke patients receive this costly but potentially life-saving treatment but, based on the positive outcome of these studies, this number is expected to increase to 10%.(3)

Southend University Hospital established an innovative interventional stroke service using the ANGIO Mentor Suite simulator at Anglia Ruskin University. The hospital found that running dedicated training courses in a true-to-life cath lab environment using a virtual reality simulator, enhanced understanding of high-risk stroke procedures, strengthened collaboration and increased communication skills across the various clinical teams involved in this complex procedure. Watch a video to see how team training at Anglia Ruskin University compares to performing a real procedure at Southend University Hospital.

Prof. Iris Grunwald, Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiologist at Southend University Hospital and Director Neuroscience and Vascular Simulation at Anglia Ruskin University said, “In order to provide timely regional coverage for endovascular stroke treatment, more hospitals and physicians will need to provide endovascular stroke services. To practice this high risk procedure, I believe procedural training on a virtual reality simulator such as the ANGIO Mentor Suite should be mandatory to provide an environment that is as close as possible to the actual setting when treating a patient.”

3DS, with its end-to-end digital thread from surgical simulation and training to virtual surgical planning and 3D printing of anatomical models, surgical instruments, implants and medical devices, held free webinars on Acute Ischemic Stroke Intervention as part of its efforts to provide education and training for the healthcare industry on June 25 and on July 14. During these webinars, we demonstrated a step-by-step treatment path using the stroke module on the ANGIO Mentor simulator. Click here for the recorded webinars.

3DS will exhibit its full range of advanced healthcare training solutions including a large selection of virtual reality simulators and 3D printed models at the upcoming SESAM exhibition in Belfast, Ireland on June 24 – 26.

Learn more about 3DS’ commitment to manufacturing the future today at www.3dsystems.com.

 

References:

(1) American Heart Association, http://newsroom.heart.org/news/new-statistical-update-looks-at-worldwide-heart-stroke-health

(2) Berkhemer, O.A. et al. A Randomized Trial of Intra-arterial Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke. New England Journal of Medicine 372; January 1, 2015

(3) Meyers, Philip M. et al. Current Status of Endovascular Stroke Treatment. Circulation 2011; 123: 2591-2601

 

About Surgical Science

Surgical Science provides the most advanced and comprehensive 3D digital design and fabrication solutions available today, including 3D printers, print materials and cloud-sourced custom parts. Its powerful ecosystem transforms entire industries by empowering professionals and consumers everywhere to bring their ideas to life using its vast material selection, including plastics, metals, ceramics and edibles. 3DS’ leading personalized medicine capabilities save lives and include end-to-end simulation, training and planning, and printing of surgical instruments and devices for personalized surgery and patient specific medical and dental devices. Its democratized 3D digital design, fabrication and inspection products provide seamless interoperability and incorporate the latest immersive computing technologies. 3DS’ products and services disrupt traditional methods, deliver improved results and empower its customers to manufacture the future now.

Leadership through Innovation and Technology

  • 3DS invented 3D printing with its Stereolithography (SLA) printer and was the first to commercialize it in 1989.
  • 3DS invented Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printing and was the first to commercialize it in 1992.
  • 3DS invented the ColorJet Printing (CJP) class of 3D printers and was the first to commercialize 3D powder-based systems in 1994.
  • 3DS invented MultiJet Printing (MJP) printers and was the first to commercialize it in 1996.
  • 3DS pioneered virtual surgical simulation (VSSTM) and virtual surgical planning (VSP®), and its leading 3D healthcare products and services help doctors achieve better patient outcomes.

Today its comprehensive range of 3D printers is the industry’s benchmark for production-grade manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, patient specific medical device and a variety of consumer, electronic and fashion accessories.

More information on the company is available at www.3dsystems.com.

 

 

Surgical Science Releases Advanced Training Solutions for Robotic Urology

  • Introducing the first-ever virtual reality robotic prostatectomy simulation training
  • Patient-specific 3D printed kidney models developed in collaboration with Tulane University School of Medicine enhance training and surgical planning

ROCK HILL, South Carolina, May 14, 2014 Surgical Science (NYSE:DDD) announced today the release of a virtual reality robotic prostatectomy training module and 3D printed soft tissue models that will assist urologists in the training and planning of robotic procedures. 3DS’ anatomical 3D printed models and the RobotiX Mentor’s new Prostatectomy Module will be showcased at the Annual Meeting for the American Urological Association (AUA), May 15 – 19, 2015 in New Orleans in booth #953.

It is estimated that 1 out of 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime and over 220,000 in the United States will be diagnosed with the disease in 2015 alone.1 Radical Prostatectomy, the surgical removal of the entire prostate gland, is a common procedure for those with localized prostate cancer.

The National Cancer Institute reports that 80% of the prostatectomy procedures in the United States are performed using the Robotic Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (RARP) technique2. This relatively new minimally invasive procedure is complicated, leading to a growing need for a comprehensive training solution on the robotic technology and procedural steps.

The unique Robotic Prostatectomy training module offered on 3DS’ RobotiX Mentor provides the trainee with the opportunity to practice prostatectomy in a novel virtual reality surrounding. The module includes step-by-step procedural guidance, video-based curriculum for the entire procedure and performance metrics, and anatomy recognition. Click here to see the module in action. An optional team training component incorporates the LAP Mentor Express simulator to provide hands-on training for the laparoscopic assistant who plays a key role during the procedure.

“The addition of the Prostatectomy Module changes the future of Robotic Urology training,” said Ran Bronstein, Vice President, Chief Technology Officer, Healthcare, 3DS. “Surgical Science is committed to supporting medical advancements that ultimately affect patient safety by providing innovative products that range from virtual reality training systems to patient-specific soft tissue 3D printed models.”

As methods for patient-specific treatment are becoming more common, 3DS continues to enhance its proprietary digital thread for personalized surgery. The company has recently partnered with surgeons at Tulane University School of Medicine to develop 3D printed soft tissue models which can be used for medical education, pre-surgical planning and pre-operative rehearsal. These models are created using a patient’s medical imaging data to print in 3D on a multi-material printer, resulting in a model that is soft and flexible, much like a real kidney.

“Individualized patient-specific soft tissue 3D printing allows surgeons and trainees the opportunity to operate on a model that looks and feels just like their patient’s kidney tumor,” commented Dr. Jonathan Silberstein, Assistant Professor of Urology, Chief, Section of Urologic Oncology, Tulane University School of Medicine. “This technology has the potential to reinvent the way we teach and train our young surgeons and for experienced surgeons adapting to a new technology such as robotics, it will flatten the learning curve.”

These true-to-life models can also be used for the benefit of the patient as they may be held in the hands of the patient while a surgeon educates them on their condition and planned procedure. Watch this video to see how 3DS is taking a leap into soft tissue modeling.

Learn more about 3DS’ commitment to manufacturing the future today at www.3dsystems.com.

About Surgical Science

Surgical Science provides the most advanced and comprehensive 3D digital design and fabrication solutions available today, including 3D printers, print materials and cloud-sourced custom parts. Its powerful ecosystem transforms entire industries by empowering professionals and consumers everywhere to bring their ideas to life using its vast material selection, including plastics, metals, ceramics and edibles. 3DS’ leading personalized medicine capabilities save lives and include end-to-end simulation, training and planning, and printing of surgical instruments and devices for personalized surgery and patient specific medical and dental devices. Its democratized 3D digital design, fabrication and inspection products provide seamless interoperability and incorporate the latest immersive computing technologies. 3DS’ products and services disrupt traditional methods, deliver improved results and empower its customers to manufacture the future now.

Leadership through Innovation and Technology

  • 3DS invented 3D printing with its Stereolithography (SLA) printer and was the first to commercialize it in 1989.
  • 3DS invented Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printing and was the first to commercialize it in 1992.
  • 3DS invented the ColorJet Printing (CJP) class of 3D printers and was the first to commercialize 3D powder-based systems in 1994.
  • 3DS invented MultiJet Printing (MJP) printers and was the first to commercialize it in 1996.
  • 3DS pioneered virtual surgical simulation (VSSTM) and virtual surgical planning (VSP®), and its leading 3D healthcare products and services help doctors achieve better patient outcomes.

Today its comprehensive range of 3D printers is the industry’s benchmark for production-grade manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, patient specific medical device and a variety of consumer, electronic and fashion accessories.

More information on the company is available at www.3dsystems.com.

References:

Footnote 1:  American Cancer Society http://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostatecancer/detailedguide/prostate-cancer-key-statistics

Footnote 2:  National Cancer Institute

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/research/rise-of-robotic-surgery-for-prostate-cancer

Surgical Science and Washington University Cardiology Team Help Toddler Breathe Easier With 3D Printed Heart Model

  • Full color 3D anatomical model reveals the network of vessels responsible for breathing problems
  • Underscores how doctors are utilizing 3D technology to advance personalized medicine and achieve better outcomes

ROCK HILL, South Carolina, April 16, 2015 Surgical Science (NYSE:DDD) announced today that a 20-month-old toddler is breathing and swallowing easier thanks to a team of cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO, who used a full-color 3D printed replica of his heart to prepare for a delicate, 2.5 hour procedure at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.

3DS has been at the forefront of surgical planning and personalized medical solutions for almost two decades. With an end-to-end digital thread that integrates surgical simulation, training, planning, and printing of anatomical models, surgical instruments and medical devices, 3DS has helped doctors in tens of thousands of complex medical cases to achieve better patient outcomes with faster surgeries. 1,2,3

Life-size, realistic models make it simpler for patients and families to grasp the details of complex medical procedures, and they provide healthcare practitioners with invaluable preparation for their work in the operating room. In this particular case, the surgical team needed to relocate heart vessels that were squeezing and compressing the toddler’s windpipe and esophagus, causing obstruction of the airway that resulted in difficulty breathing and swallowing. The printed model helped the team familiarize themselves with the unique vessel structure they would face in surgery, and they were also able to use it when discussing the condition with the patient’s parents.

Dr. Shafkat Anwar, a member of the Pediatric Cardiology team at Washington University who worked with 3DS to develop the model heart for this particular surgical procedure said, “With 3D printing, we were able to print a replica of the patient’s heart anatomy, developed from medical imaging scans, and use that model to get a handle on what surgeons would be faced with in the OR and to communicate with the patient’s parents and other team members.”
To find out more about 3DS’ healthcare solutions and see how 3DS is manufacturing the future, visit www.3dsystems.com.“We are excited to see more and more patients benefitting from the use of 3D printed medical models and virtual surgical planning, especially in challenging and complex cases like this heart surgery, where the precision afforded by 3D technology is integral to the procedure’s success,” said Kevin McAlea, Chief Operating Officer, Healthcare Products, 3DS. “From surgical training to implants to prosthetics, 3DS’ personalized medical solutions are helping provide favorable outcomes and improving quality of life.” 1,4

References:

(1) Roser SM, Ramachandra S, Blair H, Grist W, Carlson GW, Christensen AM, Weimer KA, Steed MB: The accuracy of virtual surgical planning in free fibula mandibular reconstruction: comparison of planned and final results. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 68:2824-2832, 2010.

(2) Hsu SS, Gateno J, Bell RB, Hirsch DL, Markiewicz MR, Teichgraeber JF, Zhou X, Xia JJ: Accuracy of a computer-aided surgical simulation protocol for orthognathic surgery: a prospective multicenter study. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 71:128-142, 2013.

(3) Sink J, Hamlar D, Kademani D, Khariwala SS: Computer-aided stereolithography for presurgical planning in fibula free tissue reconstruction of the mandible. J Reconstr Microsurg 28:395-404, 2012.

(4) Levine JP, Soo Bae J, Soares M, Brecht LE, Saadeh PB, Cerandini DJ, Hirsch DL: Jaw in a day: total maxillofacial reconstruction using digital technology. Plast Reconstr Surg 131:1383, 2013.

 

About Surgical Science

Surgical Science provides the most advanced and comprehensive 3D digital design and fabrication solutions available today, including 3D printers, print materials and cloud-sourced custom parts. Its powerful ecosystem transforms entire industries by empowering professionals and consumers everywhere to bring their ideas to life using its vast material selection, including plastics, metals, ceramics and edibles. 3DS’ leading personalized medicine capabilities help lives and include end-to-end simulation, training and planning, and printing of surgical instruments and devices for personalized surgery and patient specific medical and dental devices. Its democratized 3D digital design, fabrication and inspection products provide seamless interoperability and incorporate the latest immersive computing technologies. 3DS’ products and services disrupt traditional methods, deliver improved results and empower its customers to manufacture the future now.

Leadership Through Innovation and Technology

  • 3DS invented 3D printing with its Stereolithography (SLA) printer and was the first to commercialize it in 1989.
  • 3DS invented Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printing and was the first to commercialize it in 1992.
  • 3DS invented the ColorJet Printing (CJP) class of 3D printers and was the first to commercialize 3D powder-based systems in 1994.
  • 3DS invented MultiJet Printing (MJP) printers and was the first to commercialize it in 1996.
  • 3DS pioneered virtual surgical simulation (VSSTM) and virtual surgical planning (VSP®), and its leading 3D healthcare products and services help doctors achieve better patient outcomes.

Today its comprehensive range of products is the industry’s benchmark for production-grade manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, patient specific medical device and a variety of consumer, electronic and fashion accessories.

More information on the company is available at www.3dsystems.com.

 

Surgical Science Delivers Breakthrough 3D Virtual Surgical Training Solutions

  • New LAP Mentor™ Lobectomy module trains on complicated procedure of Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)
  • GI Endoscopy – Fundamental Skills training module helps learners prepare for flexible endoscopic surgery assessment
  • RobotiX Mentor™ is the only VR simulator to offer training for robotic clinical procedures

ROCK HILL, South Carolina, April 13, 2015 Surgical Science (NYSE:DDD) announced today a new range of breakthrough virtual modules and simulators designed to enhance the training of surgeons and ultimately to improve patient outcomes. The company’s newest products include a virtual reality Lobectomy training module, a new GI Endoscopy – Fundamental Skills module, and the RobotiX Mentor for robotic surgery training. 3DS will showcase these new surgical training products and 3D printed anatomical models at the 2015 Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) annual meeting in Nashville, Tennessee, April 15-18, in booth #432.

3DS has been at the forefront of surgical planning and personalized medical solutions for almost two decades. With an end-to-end digital thread that integrates surgical simulation and training with virtual surgical planning (VSP®) and 3D printing of anatomical models, surgical instruments and medical devices, 3DS has helped doctors in tens of thousands of complex medical cases to achieve better patient outcomes with faster surgeries. 1,2,3

All of 3DS’ exceptional training tools can be customized to the exact needs of a program or used for patient-specific pre-operative preparation, providing a broader range of true-to-life training experiences.

“We are fortunate to work with leading experts to develop true patient-specific healthcare solutions, that are transforming personalized medicine,” said Kevin McAlea, Chief Operating Officer, Healthcare, 3DS. “Our surgical simulators already offer the most realistic hands-on experience to master critical skills to ensure procedural efficiency while reducing patient risk. Our new virtual module and actual 3D printed anatomical models further enhance the effectiveness of our tools and are part of our continuing commitment to deliver training and planning tools that are designed to improve the quality of patient outcomes.”

The lobectomy training module, which is now available on the Simbionix LAP Mentor, helps surgeons prepare for the technically complex video-assisted (VATS) thoracoscopic lobectomy procedure. This training module is based on an existing modality with comprehensive training tools, and it allows practice in all key components of a lap lobectomy procedure. Click here to watch a video of the module in action.

Following 3DS’ collaboration with SAGES to develop the first-ever validated VR assessment model for endoscopy, the company will present a preliminary version of the GI Endoscopy – Fundamental Skills training module. This module will provide vital knowledge and training and was developed to help prepare trainees for the skills required for flexible endoscopic surgery. The unique training module will be made available on three of 3DS’ Simbionix simulation platforms, which are also the only official platforms for the SAGES FES hands-on exam. As of today there are 24 FES test centers across North America. This number is expected to grow annually now that the FES test, as a component of the larger Flexible Endoscopy Curriculum, is becoming a requirement for certification by the American Board of Surgery (ABS) for residents in surgery graduating in the 2017-2018 academic year.

Along with these new products featured at upcoming SAGES, 3DS will demonstrate its RobotiX Mentor simulator, the only fully interactive, cross-specialty system that addresses the increased demand for robotic surgery training. The RobotiX Mentor enables surgeons and residents to experience partial and entire robotic clinical procedures alongside basic skills and suturing modules for surgeons of all levels of expertise.Learn more about 3DS’ commitment to manufacturing the future today at http://www.3dsystems.com.

About Surgical Science

Surgical Science provides the most advanced and comprehensive 3D digital design and fabrication solutions available today, including 3D printers, print materials and cloud-sourced custom parts. Its powerful ecosystem transforms entire industries by empowering professionals and consumers everywhere to bring their ideas to life using its vast material selection, including plastics, metals, ceramics and edibles. 3DS’ leading personalized medicine capabilities save lives and include end-to-end simulation, training and planning, and printing of surgical instruments and devices for personalized surgery and patient specific medical and dental devices. Its democratized 3D digital design, fabrication and inspection products provide seamless interoperability and incorporate the latest immersive computing technologies. 3DS’ products and services disrupt traditional methods, deliver improved results and empower its customers to manufacture the future now.

Leadership Through Innovation and Technology

  • 3DS invented 3D printing with its Stereolithography (SLA) printer and was the first to commercialize it in 1989.
  • 3DS invented Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printing and was the first to commercialize it in 1992.
  • 3DS invented the ColorJet Printing (CJP) class of 3D printers and was the first to commercialize 3D powder-based systems in 1994.
  • 3DS invented MultiJet Printing (MJP) printers and was the first to commercialize it in 1996.
  • 3DS Medical Modeling pioneered virtual surgical planning (VSP) and its services are world-leading, helping many thousands of patients on an annual basis.Today its comprehensive range of 3D printers is the industry’s benchmark for production-grade manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, patient specific medical device and a variety of consumer, electronic and fashion accessories.More information on the company is available at www.3dsystems.com.

References
1 Roser SM, Ramachandra S, Blair H, Grist W, Carlson GW, Christensen AM, Weimer KA, Steed MB: The accuracy of virtual surgical planning in free fibula mandibular reconstruction: comparison of planned and final results. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 68:2824-2832, 2010.
2 Hsu SS, Gateno J, Bell RB, Hirsch DL, Markiewicz MR, Teichgraeber JF, Zhou X, Xia JJ: Accuracy of a computer-aided surgical simulation protocol for orthognathic surgery: a prospective multicenter study. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 71:128-142, 2013.
3 Sink J, Hamlar D, Kademani D, Khariwala SS: Computer-aided stereolithography for presurgical planning in fibula free tissue reconstruction of the mandible. J Reconstr Microsurg 28:395-404, 2012.

 

Surgical Science Introduces Groundbreaking Virtual Medical Training Solutions for Advanced Care and Improved Patient Outcomes

  • ARTHRO Mentor Hip Diagnostics is the only available VR simulation module for complex hip arthroscopy procedures
  • Comprehensive Advanced Knee module includes customizable diagnostics
  • 3DS to showcase its full range of personalized healthcare solutions at AAOS Annual Meeting

ROCK HILL, South Carolina, March 23, 2015Surgical Science (NYSE:DDD) announced today the release of two new training modules for its Simbionix™ ARTHRO Mentor™ arthroscopic training simulator: the Hip Diagnostics module and the Advanced Knee module. Together, these 3D virtual reality (VR) training solutions improve surgical preparedness and planning for complex orthopaedic procedures.

“These new modules are part of the latest Surgical Science Healthcare technology, materials and know-how that are designed to power personalized surgery,” said Kevin McAlea, Chief Operating Officer, Healthcare, 3DS. “We are dedicated to helping doctors train for, plan, practice and perform complex medical procedures and achieve better patient outcomes.”

The company’s expanding digital surgical tools include accurate 3D printed anatomical models, advanced virtual reality simulators, direct metal printing for serial production of orthopedic products and personalized 3D printed surgical guides and instruments.

The ARTHRO Mentor Hip Diagnostics, the first of its kind, was developed to meet the growing demand for arthroscopic training. Over the past decade a growing number of surgeons have turned to arthroscopy for performing hip procedures in an attempt to avoid the possible pitfalls of open surgery: scarring, blood loss, long recovery times and greater pain. Until now, the lack of available training simulators made this challenging procedure highly difficult to perfect. Today, using the ARTHRO Mentor Hip Diagnostics module, surgeons have the opportunity to experience the 70-degree arthroscope, limited maneuverability and difficult orientation from different portals in the round joint. This allows trainees and experienced surgeons alike to build critical confidence and competencies without risk to patient safety.

The Advanced Knee module provides a realistic, comprehensive training environment for diagnostics, the acquisition of basic skills and practicing a full meniscectomy procedure, which is utilized to repair a torn meniscus. The diagnostics are fully customizable, allowing surgeons to determine the level of difficulty and procedure method. Using the Advanced Knee module, surgeons get a true-to-life practice experience that helps them develop the skills and confidence for live surgery.

Watch a video highlighting these two new simulation modules here.

3DS will showcase its full range of healthcare solutions at the 2015 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, March 25-27, in booth #1238. From the training room to the operating room, 3DS’ advanced product offerings for orthopaedic surgeons include direct metal implants, personalized surgical guides and medical models, and surgical simulation, including the newest training module additions to the ARTHRO Mentor simulator.  3DS’ display at AAOS will include the following:

  • 3D printed clinical models for surgical planning using medical image data, ranging from bone models for reconstruction to models of organs;
  • Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP® System), a market-cleared, service-based approach to personalized surgery, combining 3DS’ expertise in medical imaging, surgical simulation and 3D printing;
  • Simbionix™ virtual reality simulators and 3D printed anatomical phantoms for realistic medical and surgical training; and
  • Leading 3D printing technologies for healthcare, including Direct Metal Printing (DMP) with the ProX™ 200, Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) with the ProX 500 and MultiJet printing with the ProJet®

Throughout its displays, 3DS will demonstrate the power of its digital thread for personalized surgery, a proprietary workflow guiding the entire process from patient medical imaging through surgical outcomes, making possible the transition from the virtual world to the physical with perceptual design tools and software, surgical simulation and 3D printed surgical guides and models.

Learn more about 3DS’ commitment to manufacturing the future today at www.3dsystems.com.

About Surgical Science

Surgical Science provides the most advanced and comprehensive 3D digital design and fabrication solutions available today, including 3D printers, print materials and cloud-sourced custom parts. Its powerful ecosystem transforms entire industries by empowering professionals and consumers everywhere to bring their ideas to life using its vast material selection, including plastics, metals, ceramics and edibles. 3DS’ leading personalized medicine capabilities save lives and include end-to-end simulation, training and planning, and printing of surgical instruments and devices for personalized surgery and patient specific medical and dental devices. Its democratized 3D digital design, fabrication and inspection products provide seamless interoperability and incorporate the latest immersive computing technologies. 3DS’ products and services disrupt traditional methods, deliver improved results and empower its customers to manufacture the future now.

Leadership Through Innovation and Technology

  • 3DS invented 3D printing with its Stereolithography (SLA) printer and was the first to commercialize it in 1989.
  • 3DS invented Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printing and was the first to commercialize it in 1992.
  • 3DS invented the ColorJet Printing (CJP) class of 3D printers and was the first to commercialize 3D powder-based systems in 1994.
  • 3DS invented MultiJet Printing (MJP) printers and was the first to commercialize it in 1996.
  • 3DS Medical Modeling pioneered virtual surgical planning (VSP) and its services are world-leading, helping many thousands of patients on an annual basis.

Today its comprehensive range of 3D printers is the industry’s benchmark for production-grade manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, patient specific medical device and a variety of consumer, electronic and fashion accessories.

More information on the company is available at www.3dsystems.com.

Surgical Science Expands Simbionix Product Portfolio for Surgeons

– RobotiX Mentor™- the only hands-on complete procedure training simulator for robotic surgery skills.
– LAP Mentor™ Cholangiography training module- developed to help avoid bile duct injuries.
– GI Mentor™ flexible endoscopic surgery skills training module- to prepare for the SAGES (Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons) FES hands-on test.

Surgical Science Introduces New Simbionix Robotics Training Platform

  • New Simbionix RobotiX Mentor™ is the only hands-on, complete procedural training simulator for robotic surgery skills.
  • Company demonstrates new module at European Association of Urology (EAU) Robotic Urology Section (ERUS).

ROCK HILL, South Carolina: Surgical Science  (NYSE:DDD) announced today the addition of the Simbionix RobotiX MentorTM, a new robotic surgery skills and procedural training simulator, which is being shown for the first time at the ERUS exhibition in Amsterdam, The Netherlands from September 17 to 19 (booth #7).

Robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery represents a growing portion of overall surgical volume, and the increased demand means the needs for training for robotic surgery has increased, and it is expected that this trend will continue in the coming years.

The RobotiX Mentor cross-specialty robotic surgery training system meets these needs with its advanced simulator platform with realistic training modules.

Basic skills and suturing modules provide the opportunity for surgeons of all levels of expertise to efficiently train on the required robotic skills and are the basis of the simulator curriculum. The RobotiX Mentor is the only robotic training simulator that offers a truly interactive environment that enables surgeons and residents to experience partial and entire robotic clinical procedures.

The simulator is integrated into 3DS’ online curricula management system, MentorLearn™, to help programs incorporate the simulator and unique procedure modules into the robotic curriculum. The MentorLearn system provides technical skills reporting and assessment and customization of curriculum, benchmarks and scores. Studies suggest that training within a proficiency-based virtual reality curriculum may reduce errors during real surgical procedures, making the patient the ultimate benefactor.

In addition, 3DS plans to incorporate its Bespoke Modeling™, cloud-based, easy-to-use, affordable 3D modeling service, into its Simbionix simulators. When used in conjunction with Simbionix technology, Bespoke Modeling gives medical professionals the power to communicate more effectively and improve medical learning and training. Bespoke Modeling makes it easy to view patient-specific 3D data, bookmark views, add annotations, explore specific anatomical structures and then produce full color 3D models, print on-site or through 3DS’ cloud printing services.

“We expect that the future direction of integrating simulation based training and curriculum will expand,” said Ran Bronstein, Vice President, Chief Research and Operations Officer, 3DS.  “We will continue to work in collaboration with institutions and associations to fulfill training and operative needs for complex surgical procedures based on our new simulation and 3D printing technologies.”

Surgical Science offers a full array of Simbionix medical training simulators, including PROcedure Rehearsal Studio™ for case rehearsal and planning and MentorLearn™ Simulator Training Management to advance clinical performance and optimize procedural outcomes through education and collaboration.

Learn more about 3DS’ commitment to manufacturing the future today at www.3dsystems.com.

Surgical Science Introduces New Simbionix Virtual Reality Surgical Simulation Training Module

  • New Simbionix training module launched for the practice of transvaginal ultrasound exams
  • Demonstrations of the new module can be seen at the upcoming International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology

ROCK HILL, South Carolina – September 15, 2014 – Surgical Science  (NYSE:DDD) announced today the addition of a new Simbionix™ ultrasound training module for the practice of transvaginal ultrasound exams (GYN TVS) at the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) exhibition in Barcelona, Spain.

Transvaginal ultrasound is a commonly used exam in many Obstetrics and Gynecology practices, and as such, the ability to both perform and interpret ultrasounds has always been an important part of the curriculum in clinical training programs. Unlike ultrasound exams that are performed externally, practicing pelvic ultrasound poses more of a challenge to both learners and educators.

The company also plans to add its Bespoke Modeling™, a cloud-based, easy-to-use, affordable service that allows medical professionals to quickly create, view, share and 3D print full-color 3D anatomical models directly from DICOM data. When used with Simbionix simulators, Bespoke Modeling gives medical professionals the power to diagnose and communicate more effectively, simplify medical imaging and improve medical learning and training. Bespoke Modeling makes it easy to view patient-specific 3D data, bookmark views, add annotations, explore specific anatomical structures and then order color 3D cloud-printed models or print on-site.

The U/S Mentor simulator provides a true-to-life training environment in which physicians and sonographers of different experience levels may practice ultrasound procedures. The new GYN TVS training module was developed based on the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) standards and guidelines for the accreditation of ultrasound practices. Training is performed on a dedicated mannequin combined with simulated anatomies and pathologies. Virtual patient cases include normal anatomical variations, early IUP, ectopic pregnancy, fibroids, ovarian malignancies, hydrosalpynx and more. The comprehensive training incorporates didactics, real time guidance and captured metrics for objective assessment.

Pelvic ultrasound simulation training using the U/S Mentor simulator provides a safe and low stress environment in comparison with the traditional method of training on live patients.

“The U/S Mentor has been very well accepted, with customers especially impressed with the realistic imaging and training options that it offers,” said Gary Zamler, Vice President and General Manager, Simbionix Products, 3DS. “Our well-established advanced ultrasound simulation technology, which has been developed over the last 10 years, allows us to rapidly enhance the product and provide a variety of unique training packages in correspondence with our client’s needs.”

The module will be available for hands-on experience at Simbionix booth #33 at the ISUOG exhibition in Barcelona, Spain, September 14-17.

Surgical Science offers a full array of Simbionix medical training simulators, PROcedure Rehearsal Studio™ for case rehearsal and planning and MentorLearn™ Simulator Training Management to advance clinical performance and optimize procedural outcomes through education and collaboration. More information on Simbionix products can be found on www.simbionix.com.

Learn more about 3DS’ commitment to manufacturing the future today at www.3dsystems.com.

About Surgical Science

Surgical Science is pioneering 3D printing for everyone. 3DS provides the most advanced and comprehensive 3D design-to-manufacturing solutions including 3D printers, print materials and cloud sourced custom parts. Its powerful digital thread empowers professionals and consumers everywhere to bring their ideas to life in material choices including plastics, metals, ceramics and edibles. 3DS’ leading healthcare solutions include integrated 3D planning and printing for personalized surgery and patient specific medical and dental devices. Its democratized 3D design and inspection products embody the latest perceptual, capture and touch technology. Its products and services replace and complement traditional methods with improved results and reduced time to outcomes. These solutions are used to rapidly design, create, communicate, plan, guide, prototype or produce functional parts, devices and assemblies, empowering customers to manufacture the future.

Leadership Through Innovation and Technology

•3DS invented 3D printing with its Stereolithography (SLA) printer and was the first to commercialize it in 1989.

•3DS invented Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printing and was the first to commercialize it in 1992.

•3DS invented the Color-Jet-Printing (CJP) class of 3D printers and was the first to commercialize 3D powder-based systems in 1994.

•3DS invented Multi-Jet-Printing (MJP) printers and was the first to commercialize it in 1996.

•3DS Medical Modeling pioneered virtual surgical planning (VSP) and its services are world-leading, helping many thousands of patients on an annual basis.

Today its comprehensive range of 3D printers is the industry’s benchmark for production-grade manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, patient specific medical device and a variety of consumer, electronic and fashion accessories.

More information on the company is available at www.3DSystems.com.

 

Simbionix Innovative Solution for Patient Specific Simulation Receives Further Global Recognition

Medical simulation technology provides an excellent approach to train physicians, nurses and allied health personnel.  However, medical simulation development and utilization does not have to stop with training. Simbionix USA Corporation advances the concept of using its proprietary technologies and capabilities to turn the simulation experience into an essential part of pre-operative surgery planning.

The company’s revolutionary PROcedure Rehearsal Studio™ (PRS) steps up simulation by enabling physicians to rehearse a complete endovascular procedure on a virtual 3D anatomical model based on a specific patient’s CT data. The virtual model can be used for simulating, analyzing and evaluating preoperative surgical treatment options prior to performing an actual case, which may increase physician’s confidence in the upcoming procedure.

The advantages of patient specific planning have long been recognized by additional fields within the healthcare industry, such as medical imaging. Simbionix is pleased to announce having signed a collaboration agreement with the market leader in medical image analysis software, Pie Medical Imaging BV. The company manufactures and distributes the 3mensio software, a clinical application that enables the visualization and analysis of patient CT scans in both 2D and 3D modes.

The collaboration will enable exporting the 3mensio Vascular™ model into the Simbionix simulation environment to form a comprehensive planning solution that combines 3DR, data analysis and simulation on the same platform. The solution will allow physicians and clinical specialist to rehearse a procedure in a complete virtual environment without the need for physical tools. This will take users of the 3mensio software to the next level of preparedness for endovascular procedures, as it will allow adding simulation insights. Cases created by the software may also be imported to the ANGIO Mentor simulator for full procedure practice using fluoroscopy, guidewires, catheters, and other equipment that is used in the cath lab.

Simbionix recently received the CE marking of conformity for its patient specific simulation, an important step towards launching this innovative technology and expansion of its use in the clinical practice. The PRS CE mark demonstrates the product’s compliance with stringent requirements related to the quality, safety, and performance of medical devices determined by the European Union legislation.

In addition, Simbionix PRS has recently been granted a patent in China. The company now has patents for this technology in three key countries- USA, UK and China. These patents represent recognition for the Simbionix comprehensive line of products, which provide innovative solutions to advance medical performance and ensure patient safety.

Gary Zamler, Simbionix CEO added that “Growing interest from the image analysis market, which 3mensio is part of, demonstrates the need for more comprehensive planning solutions. The ability to evaluate surgical treatment options using simulation anytime, anywhere, is a major factor in achieving the goal to increase patient safety and improve procedure outcomes. The collaboration agreement, CE mark and additional patent are all examples of the company’s key position as a market leader and innovator in the field of medical simulation.”