From medical imaging data to 3D printed anatomical models

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178540
• Publication Date: 2017-05-31T18:29:56Z
• Authors: Thore M. Bücking; Emma R. Hill; James L. Robertson; Efthymios Maneas; Andrew A. Plumb; Daniil I. Nikitichev
• Keywords: 3d printed; 3d printer; 3d model

Anatomical models are important training and teaching tools in the clinical environment routinely used medical imaging research. Advances segmentation algorithms increased availability of three-dimensional (3D) printers have made it possible to create cost-efficient patient-specific without expert knowledge. We introduce a general workflow that can be convert volumetric data (as generated by Computer Tomography (CT)) 3D printed physical models. This process is broken up into three steps: image segmentation, mesh refinement printing. To lower barrier entry provide best options when aiming print an anatomical model from images, we overview relevant free open-source as well printing technologies. demonstrate utility this streamlined creating ribs, liver, lung using Fused Deposition Modelling printer.