Maternal-fetal physical model: image fusion obtained by white light scanner and magnetic resonance imaging

Background: Physical fetal models developed from three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan data may be used for medical education purposes, for parental counseling/multidisciplinary team management and to improve the maternal-fetal attachment (MFA) in blind pregnant women.

Purpose: We proposed a new technique to create a maternal-fetal physical model by using MRI scan data to improve the MFA.

Methods: For the construction of the maternal-fetal physical model, two different processes were used. For the internal part of the maternal-fetal physical model, we used the segmentation and the 3D reconstruction made from the MRI scan data, and for the outside, we performed 3D scanning by using a white light scanner. After obtaining the 3D models, we used a registration tool to position them in alignment.

Conclusion: Maternal-fetal physical models improve the MFA by using both tactile and visual sensations of the pregnant woman and her fetus.