Setting Up 3D Printing Services for Orthopaedic Applications: A Step-by-Step Guide and an Overview of 3DBioSphere

3D printing has widespread applications in orthopaedics including creating biomodels, patient-specific instruments, implants, and developing bioprints. 3DGraphy or printing 3D models enable the surgeon to understand, plan, and simulate different procedures on it. Despite widespread applications in non-healthcare specialties, it has failed to gain traction in healthcare settings. This is perhaps due to perceived capital expenditure cost and the lack of knowledge and skill required to execute the process.

This article is written with an aim to provide step-by-step instructions for setting up a cost-efficient 3D printing laboratory in an institution or standalone radiology centre. The article with the help of video modules will explain the key process of segmentation, especially the technique of edge detection and thresholding which are the heart of 3D printing.

This is likely to enable the practising orthopaedician and radiologist to set up a 3D printing unit in their departments or even standalone radiology centres at minimal startup costs. This will enable maximal utilisation of this technology that is likely to bring about a paradigm shift in planning, simulation, and execution of complex surgeries.