Producing three-dimensional printed models of the hepatobiliary system from computed tomography imaging data

Area of Science:

• Anatomical Education
• Medical Imaging
• 3D Printing Technology

Background:

• Traditional anatomy teaching relies on cadavers and models, which have limitations like poor detail and high cost.
• Existing anatomical models often lack texture and fine anatomical detail, hindering effective learning.
• Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers a solution to create detailed and accessible anatomical teaching resources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the methodology for developing accurate 3D printed models of the hepatobiliary system.
• To demonstrate the utility of computed tomography (CT) in creating detailed anatomical models.
• To introduce the Oxford Library of Anatomy, featuring 3D models from medical imaging.

Main Methods:

• Utilized computed tomography (CT) scans to generate a virtual 3D model of the hepatobiliary system.
• Printed a full-size, color 3D model locally from the CT-derived virtual model.
• Documented the specific software and processes involved in model creation.

Main Results:

• Successfully created an accurate, full-size, color 3D printed model of the hepatobiliary system.
• The developed model exhibits superior anatomical detail compared to traditional plastic models.
• The process provides a reproducible method for generating complex anatomical models.

Conclusions:

• The 3D printed hepatobiliary model serves as a valuable adjunct for anatomy education.
• This study introduces a series documenting the creation of 3D anatomical models from CT and MRI scans.
• The Oxford Library of Anatomy aims to provide a comprehensive collection of complex anatomical models for training.