Applications of 3D printing in small animal magnetic resonance imaging

• DOI: 10.1117/1.jmi.6.2.021605
• Publication Date: 2019-05-15T14:33:21Z
• Authors: John C. Nouls; Rohan S. Virgincar; Alexander G. Culbert; Nathann Morand; Dana W. Bobbert
• Keywords: 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine

Three-dimensional (3D) printing has significantly impacted the quality, efficiency, and reproducibility of preclinical magnetic resonance imaging. It vastly expanded ability to produce MR-compatible parts that readily permit customization animal handling, achieve consistent positioning anatomy RF coils promptly, accelerate throughput. permits rapid cost-effective creation customized a specific imaging study, species, weight, or even one unique animal, not routinely used in research. We illustrate power this technology by describing five studies solutions enabled different 3D processes materials. describe fixtures, assemblies, devices were created ensure safety anesthetized lemurs during an MR examination their brain facilitate localized, contrast-enhanced measurements white blood cell concentration mouse model pancreatitis. expansive use build birdcage coil components ventilator enable pulmonary gas exchange rats using hyperpolarized Xe129 . Finally, we present applications create high-quality, dual connectivity mapping specimens increase throughput tumor examinations pituitary adenoma.