Abstract
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.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).