Advanced "tactile" medical imaging for separation surgeries of conjoined twins.

BACKGROUND: Understanding the anatomy of conjoined twins is difficult because of the rarity of this congenital malformation and the scarcity of reported cases in medical literature. NEW TECHNOLOGY: Advances in radiologic imaging, computer modeling, and sophisticated manufacturing techniques enable medical imaging datasets to be translated into accurate, solid, life-size models. These models, which can be designed to include various combinations of anatomical features revealed by established imaging modalities, are important for pre-surgical assessments and planning, as well as for reference during the actual operative procedure. In addition, they provide a valuable basis for communication between the groups of specialists who are involved in these cases. CASE STUDIES: This article will describe the advances in technology behind this process and illustrate its value in two cases of craniopagus twins.