Potentials of three dimensional printing in radiology: A case of a knee injury

Introduction. Images of computed tomography, computed tomography angiography, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography are usually stored in Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine standard formats, which can be used later for processing and making three dimensional models and objects. The three dimensional printing has become increasingly popular in various fields of medicine. The purpose of this article was to present the workflow for three dimensional printing of medical models and to point out potential significance of three dimensional model printing in clinical practice and in training of medical students and residents. This type of approach may open new perspectives in communication and interaction between clinicians, radiologists and patients, in order to achieve better treatment results. Material and Methods. Images of an injured knee in digital imaging and communication in medicine format were used for creation of a three dimensional printed model. Digital imaging and communication in medicine files were without sensitive information on the patient using three dimensional Slicer software, then processed with embodi three dimensional cloud service, further prepared with MeshLab and printed on a Ultimaker 2 printer. Results and Discussion. A three dimensional model of an injured knee was printed and presented. The model was used for the evaluation of tibial fractures. It may be shown to the patient and also to the surgeon in order to be more specific about the treatment procedure. Application of three dimensional printing in medicine was discussed. Conclusion. Medical three dimensional printing is likely to play a more important role in the clinical practice, not only for surgical planning, but also in the education of students and residents in different medical branches. This three dimensional plastic model of an injured knee may serve as a good example of the potentials of the three dimensional printing technology in medicine. nema