Development of a 3-D Printing Laboratory for Foot and Ankle Applications

This article is a guide to starting a 3-dimensional (3-D) print laboratory; 3-D models of complicated foot and ankle pathology can enhance surgical planning, improve patient and medical trainee education, and aid in research. This article discusses the variables that must be considered when creating a 3-D printing laboratory, including the hardware, software, printing materials, and procedures. Herein is a basic outline of what is required to develop a foot and ankle 3-D printing laboratory.