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Updated: Feb 2, 2026

3D Printing of Biomolecular Models for Research and Pedagogy
Published on: March 13, 2017
A composite 3D printed model of the midcarpal joint
Rajendran Kanagasuntheram1, Nigel Keong Teck Geh2,3, Ching Chiuan Yen3
1Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 4 Medical Drive, MD10, Singapore, 117594, Singapore. antrajen@nus.edu.sg.
Abstract:
Three-dimensional (3D) printing has recently been developed as a resource for teaching human anatomy through the accurate reproduction of anatomical specimens. Using a composite 3D printed model with the incorporation of metal and magnets, we were able to demonstrate and analyse movements at the midcarpal joint during the 'dart thrower's motion', which is an important motion in daily activities involving the use of the hand. The hand component with the distal row of carpal bones was subjected to flexion and extension at the midcarpal joint and observed for simultaneous abduction/adduction. Notable adduction was observed in the flexed position as compared to the extended position. Moreover, while the primary movements at the midcarpal joint were taking place in the medial part of the joint, the lateral part of the joint (which is ellipsoid) served to accommodate the arc of movement. We suggest that such composite 3D printed models are useful teaching tools for enhancing the understanding of complex joint movements.
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