This is a time of rapid growth in medical 3D printing. The technology allows us to take an individual patient’s scan information and create physical models, which can be used in any number of clinical applications. The industry standard DICOM image files from CT and MRI scanners can be converted into 3D files, such as STL (for stereolithography) files. These digital models can then be uploaded to a 3D printing service bureau or printed on one of the currently available professional grade printer
Every 3D printing case is different, and must be tailored for the individual patient’s specific clinical condition, anatomy, and imaging techniques.
A 47 year old woman with a renal mass was being evaluated for surgical treatment planning. A urologist familiar with my current 3D printing work requested a 3D printed model of the kidney. The purpose was to help demonstrate the anatomy of the mass with respect to the renal hilum, to help determine if a partial nephrectomy was possible,
