Application of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Three-Dimensional (3D) Visualization Technologies in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Refractory Thyroid Tumors

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the application of computer-aided design (CAD) and three-dimensional (3D) visualization techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of refractory thyroid tumors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The clinical data from 12 cases of refractory thyroid tumors treated with CAD and 3D visualization techniques from September 2016 to January 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. Ten cases were malignant, while two cases were benign. All tracheas in the 12 cases were invaded or oppressed by the thyroid tumors. Six of the cases experienced type III dyspnea, while the other six cases had type II dyspnea. All patients underwent contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) imaging. RESULTS: CAD and 3D visualization technologies were used to guide the surgeries. Ten cases of malignant thyroid tumors underwent total thyroidectomy, cervical lymph node dissection, and invaded organ resection. Among the ten cases, five underwent sleeve resections and anastomosis reconstructions, one underwent a tracheal sleeve resection and total laryngectomy, two underwent tracheal window resections, one case underwent a sternotomy, and one case underwent a laryngopharyngectomy, invaded skin resection, and pectoralis major muscle flap reconstruction. The two cases of benign thyroid tumors underwent subtotal thyroidectomies. Using CAD and 3D visualization techniques, surgeons can visually observe the relationship of the tumor with the respiratory tract and essential blood vessels, which can lead to optimized surgical plans and improved surgical outcomes. CONCLUSION: CAD and 3D visualization technologies have an important role in the personalized surgical intervention of thyroid cancer, which will likely have important clinical implications.