Background: Challenging surgical cases are becoming more and more frequent, making the optimization of decision making process and an accurate preoperative planning mandatory in order to improve postoperative outcomes.
Aims: Here we present an original multidisciplinary approach aimed at optimizing decision making in a peculiar case of double aortic arch (DAA) presenting in an adult patient.
Materials and methods: Following the diagnosis of DAA, based on conventional exams, a three steps engineering simulation was adopted including: a) three-dimensional (3D) rapid prototype simulation; b) computational fluid-dynamic analysis; c) 3D virtual simulation of surgical exposure.
Results: Based on careful evaluation of such simulations we were able to identify optimal anatomical and functional surgical options, along with the optimal surgical approach.
Discussion: In peculiar clinical case, a significant step forward to optimize preoperative surgical planning could be obtained applying current available engineering techniques.
Conclusion: We do believe that a multidisciplinary approach could become mandatory, in challenging cases, to optimize preoperative planning and outcomes.
Keywords: computational analysis; double aortic arch; tracheal compression.
© 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.