Creating pathology models from MRI data: a comparison of virtual 3D modelling and rapid prototyping techniques

This paper discusses a pilot study in collaboration between the Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification and the Pathology Department at Ninewells Hospital, Dundee. Anonymised patient MRI data depicting renal cancer was used to create a virtual 3D model and two rapid prototype models of the kidneys and surrounding anatomy. A questionnaire was conducted to collect feedback from tutors and students in order to evaluate the models and determine user preference. It was found that the majority preferred the physical models to the virtual model.