Informatics

Three-dimensional Physical Modeling: Applications and Experience at Mayo Clinic

Published Online:Nov 12 2015https://doi.org/10.1148/rg.2015140260

Abstract

The rapid expansion of the use of 3D printed anatomic models for medical use including complex surgical planning is summarized. This includes imaging considerations for radiologists and the steps for accurate model creation.

Radiologists will be at the center of the rapid technologic expansion of three-dimensional (3D) printing of medical models, as accurate models depend on well-planned, high-quality imaging studies. This article outlines the available technology and the processes necessary to create 3D models from the radiologist’s perspective. We review the published medical literature regarding the use of 3D models in various surgical practices and share our experience in creating a hospital-based three-dimensional printing laboratory to aid in the planning of complex surgeries.

^©RSNA, 2015

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Article History

Received: July 24 2014
Revision requested: Jan 5 2015
Revision received: Mar 13 2015
Accepted: Mar 18 2015
Published online: Nov 12 2015
Published in print: Nov 2015

Vol. 35, No. 7

Abbreviations

Abbreviations:
DICOM	Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine
3D	three-dimensional
2D	two-dimensional

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