Arteriovenous fistula in the aortic arch: a case report involving 3D models for surgical planning

Surgical repair of thoracic fistulas is highly complex, requiring a multi-disciplinary approach and advanced imaging for accurate diagnosis and planning. Procedures are often performed under cardiopulmonary bypass and hypothermia to enhance safety, especially in challenging scenarios. These fistulas frequently cause vascular overload and degenerative venous changes, increasing the risk of haemorrhage and complicating dissection. 3D technology significantly improves surgical planning by enabling accurate fistula localization, guiding sternotomy, simulating procedures, and mapping vascular anomalies. PolyJet models, in particular, provide superior anatomical insight. Thus, 3D modelling serves as a complementary tool that provides life-size, detailed anatomical information of the patient, facilitating better pre-operative surgical planning, and carrying the potential to reduce operative risks.