Anatomical Model or Medical Model Making, for Dental Implants, Orthopaedic Implants, and Surgical Planning.
Using CT or MRI data from nearly any source we can fabricate models of a scanned object, e.g. the jaw bone using our 3D printer technology.
These models allow the region to be directly visualised without having to carry out surgery for access. This facilitates the selection of implant components and instrumentation, allows for a greater understanding of the overall surgical “picture”, and enables the region to be tangibly studied in 3D, without being tied to a computer monitor.
What is an Anatomical / Medical Model?
Our models are precise replicas of scanned, typically, but not exclusively bony structures, e.g. the jaw bone, the head of a femur, a vertebra.
What is the process?
3D data derived from CT scans or MRI scans, is processed by sophisticated software to identify and select a particular anatomical region, or set of features,
This data is then sent to one of our high resolution 3D printers (Rapid Prototyping ). We ar capable of printing to resolutions as high as 16microns, using a light activated resin material. The finer the scan, the finer the model!
Why make an Anatomical / Medical model?
Imagine being able to physically examine the surgical site from every perspective preoperatively. With a life-size physical model in hand, planning surgery of any kind is hugely facilitated. The dimensions of dental implants, orthopaedic implants or prostheses, and the sizing or adaptation of bone plates may be predetermined, with savings in surgery time. Surgery may often be carried out minimally invasively
Patient explanation and informed consent
There is no better way to demonstrate to a patent their existing state. Issues that may seem esoteric when described to a patient become crystal clear when models are used to demonstrate a particular problem, or treatment.
Specifying Your Model
We need to know the region of interest, and the structure that is intended to be printed. The more detail we have, the better we can ensure that you will receive what is needed. Simple diagrams, and reference to slice numbers may be helpful.