From Pixels to Prototypes: 3D Printing Innovations in Radiology

Three-dimensional (3D) printing, a form of additive manufacturing, involves creating physical models from digital computer-aided design (CAD) files tailored to specific dimensions and shapes. This technology has found increasing relevance in advanced radiology by transforming digital imaging data into tangible 3D models. It offers significant benefits in clinical practice, such as treatment planning, procedural simulations, and both medical and patient education. Radiological innovations have enhanced diagnostic accuracy and communication through digital imaging modalities like computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These imaging datasets can be converted into the Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format and further processed into Standard Tessellation Language (STL) files compatible with 3D printers. The resulting 3D models provide detailed anatomical and pathological insights, opening up new avenues in patient management and care. This article explores the transformative role of 3D printing in radiology, illustrating the process involved through diagrams and highlighting 12 key applications. It emphasizes how radiologists can adopt this technology to address challenges in education, planning, protocol development, and communication.