Three-Dimensional Portable Document Format (3D PDF) in Clinical Communication and Biomedical Sciences: Systematic...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Informatics
• Scientific Publishing
• Data Visualization

Background:

• Portable Document Format (PDF) is standard for biomedical information sharing.
• 3D PDF technology, while capable of embedding 3D objects, sees limited use in science and clinical practice.
• This underutilization hinders the effective communication of complex 3D data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on 3D PDF applications in scholarly contexts.
• To identify protocols and tools for creating 3D PDFs and associated model files.
• To demonstrate the potential and practical uses of 3D PDF technology for scientific dissemination.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of PubMed and Google Scholar.
• Inclusion criteria: English, peer-reviewed, biomedical focus, published post-2005.
• Literature categorized by 3D PDF application, usage guidance, or tool/protocol development.

Main Results:

• 200 relevant publications identified; 13 focused on medical applications.
• Only one article detailed clinical routine use; most were research-focused.
• 19 articles described creation tools/protocols, often requiring advanced skills; only one all-in-one solution existed.

Conclusions:

• 3D PDF for visualization in clinical and biomedical publications is not widespread.
• Despite available technology and benefits, adoption is low.
• Wider dissemination and development of accessible, free tools are crucial for broader implementation.