3D Systems’ 3D Anatomical Modeling Aids Conjoined Twin Separation Surgery
Patient-Specific Anatomic Models
With nearly 30 years of anatomic modeling experience, 3D Systems helped establish this industry segment. We focus on converting medical images from digital medical imaging data to a 3D physical representation of any anatomy in a variety of materials.
Since each patient's anatomy is different, patient-specific anatomic models provide an opportunity to visualize and plan surgeries prior to entering the operating room. In addition, anatomic models can be used to educate patients and their families on an upcoming procedure.
Material Options
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SLA (Stereolithography)
Sterilizable
These highly accurate models of any anatomy are available in opaque white and translucent with a unique ability for selective coloration whereby the model can contain a deep brown coloration to highlight vital structures such as tumors, vascular structures or tooth roots. SLA models can be sterilized, if needed, for reference in the sterile field during the surgical procedure.
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CJP (ColorJet Printing)
Non-Sterilizable
CJP models are available in opaque white or full-color and are ideal for pre-operative planning and education. These models are not meant to be used inside the sterile field.
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MJP (MultiJet Printing)
Non-Sterilizable
MJP Models are highly accurate and can be printed using flexible material which is ideal for pre-surgical rehearsal. These models are not meant to be used inside the sterile field.
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Medical Model Library
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Overview
The Craniofacial Model Skull Library was created by selecting diagnosis-specific 3D CT datasets from the craniofacial deformities imaging archive established by Drs. Jeffery L. Marsh and Michael W. Vannier (maintained by Dr. Marsh) from 1983-2003 in St. Louis. Over 2000 CT scans were reviewed by Dr. Marsh and Dr. Chad Perlyn, with technical assistance from Mr. Dan Govier, to identify those scans with the most characteristic dysmorphology of the particular congenital anomaly prior to any intervention. Patients or their legal representatives consented to use of the CT data and clinical information for educational purposes for both health care professionals and patients and their families (Human Studies Committee approval was assisted by Dr. Alex Kane). Once representative CT datasets were selected, life-size replica models were produced using the process of stereolithography. The Craniofacial Model Skull Library is now available to all interested individuals and centers. The set has been made available exclusively through 3D Systems who has provided design and technical assistance for the project.
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Normal skull
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Unilateral cleft lip palate
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Bilateral cleft lip palate
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Hemifacial Microsomia
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Treacher Collins Syndrome
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Pierre Robin Anomalad
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Unicoronal Craniosynostosis
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Sagittal Craniosynostosis
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Metopic Craniosynostosis
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Lambdoid Craniosynostosis
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Plagiocephaly without Craniosynostosis
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Bicoronal Craniosynostosis
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Apert Syndrome
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Crouzon Syndrome
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Carpenter Syndrome
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Pfeiffer Syndrome
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Overview
The Normocephalic Templating System is the ideal tool for intra-operative reference in any case involving reconstruction of the cranium.
3D Systems has developed an anthropometrically normal, reusable titanium alloy skull in an adult male version for use in maxillofacial trauma cases such as pan-facial injuries, where standard landmarks have been lost, making it difficult to return the maxillofacial skeleton to its pre-existing form. This reliable and reusable solution for templating aides surgeons in the treatment of severe maxillofacial trauma.
Also available is a jr version which is ideal for use in restoring normal cranial form to an infant undergoing surgery for craniosynostosis or another syndromal condition.
N.T.S. Male
Severe maxillofacial trauma presents a daunting task for both the novice and experienced surgeon. Maxillofacial trauma such as pan-facial injuries, where standard landmarks have been lost, make it difficult to return the maxillofacial skeleton to its pre-existing form. Most practicing surgeons treating these injuries could benefit from a reliable and reusable solution for templating to aid in the treatment of severe maxillofacial trauma. 3D Systems has developed an anthropometrically normal, reusable titanium alloy skull to accomplish just this. Titanium was the material of choice based on its biocompatibility, thermal stability with repeat sterilization and its stability during repeated bending of titanium fixation plates. Use of an anthropometrically normal titanium skull is an excellent surgical adjunct in the primary management of severe maxillofacial trauma. The skull has been used in cases of pan-facial injuries, in addition to severe fractures of the frontal sinus, orbit, zygomatic-maxillary complex and edentulous maxilla. The titanium skull is used as a template for plate bending resulted in less manipulation of plates and therefore a biomechanically stronger fixation.1 In many cases, a postoperative CT was obtained, revealing excellent bony reduction and symmetry.
Development
A combination of Steiner and COGS analyses were used to develop a set of normative values and measurements on both cephalometric and AP radiographs of a late-twenties white male. Computed tomography (CT) data with 0.4mm spatial resolution was obtained of the maxillofacial skeleton from this generally normal patient. A three-dimensional digital model of the facial skeleton was reconstructed. In an interactive planning conference between the surgeons and the engineers, a 3D model of the skeleton was osteotomized and repositioned to achieve the normal values and measurements determined by the Steiner and COGS analyses. Once normalized, the skull was then perfected to finalize dimensions, morphology and aesthetics. The digital skull was then transformed into a physical, titanium alloy model using the Electron Beam Melting (EBM) additive manufacturing technique. N.T.S.™ ♂ was developed in conjunction with Brent DeLong, DDS and Steven Press, DDS and is available exclusively through 3D Systems.
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DeLong B, Weimer K, Press S: Development of an anthropometric skull for use in severe maxillofacial trauma reconstruction. AAOMS 94th Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA 2012.
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Lewallen J, Frederick J, Press S: Modifications of a halo-supported external fixator as an adjunct to complex maxillofacial trauma: a report of 10 cases. J Maxillofac Trauma 1:2-12, 2012.
N.T.S. male
N.T.S. jr
Restoring normal cranial form to an infant undergoing surgery for craniosynostosis or another syndromal condition is often very difficult, even in the hands of an experienced surgeon. Existing templating tools for restoring the frontal bone are cumbersome, and, in many surgeons’ hands, have limited utility. A scientifically normative model of an 11-month-old cranium was developed to assist in templating for surgeries involving the infant cranial vault. The normative dataset was developed by researchers at The Hospital for Sick Children (Toronto, Ontario, Canada) after averaging more than 100 infant CT scans.1 The result is a normative model clinically useful for vault reconstruction cases for infants 8 to 12 months of age.1 The digital skull was then transformed into a physical, titanium alloy model using the Electron Beam Melting (EBM) additive manufacturing technique. N.T.S.™ jr is available exclusively through 3D Systems.
- Saber N, Phillips J, Looi T, Usmani Z, Burge J, Drake J, Kim P: Generation of normative pediatric skull models
for use in cranial vault remodeling procedures. Childs Nev Syst 28:405-410, 2012.
N.T.S. jr
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Image Gallery
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CJP adult heart model printed on the ProJet 660Pro in VisiJet PXL
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SLA spine model printed on the ProX 800 in Accura ClearVue
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CJP conjoined twins model printed on the ProJet 660Pro in VisiJet PXL
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MJP pediatric heart model printed on the ProJet 2500Plus in VisiJet M2 ENT
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CJP pediatric skull model printed on the ProJet 660Pro in VisiJet PXL
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SLA knee model printed on the ProX 800 in Accura ABS White
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SLA scoliosis spine model printed on the ProX 800 in Accura ABS White
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CJP pediatric heart model printed on the ProJet 660Pro in VisiJet PXL
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SLA pelvis model printed on the ProX 800 in Accura ABS White
Anatomical Modeling Service
Utilizing the 3D Systems anatomical modeling service, the surgeon provides a CT or MR scan of their patient and our team of engineers will process the data, design the model and 3D print it using our state of the art fleet of 3D printers. The model is then shipped to the surgeon for use in pre-surgical planning, pre-surgical rehearsal, educational purposes and can even be used in a sterile environment depending on the material.
How Our Service Works
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Step 1
Upload your DICOM data
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Step 2
Fill out an order form
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Step 3
Expert biomedical engineers process the data and reconstruct 2D images to 3D files
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Step 4
Files are sent to our fleet of state-of-the-art 3D printers
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Step 5
Models are inspected through our intensive quality control system
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Step 6
Models are carefully packaged and shipped
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Complete an Order
Uploading your files to begin a case is an easy 2 step process. Step 1, upload medical imaging data by clicking on the link below. Step 2, download and complete the order form and email it to [email protected]. Having trouble? Contact our support team via email [email protected] or call our offices for assistance +1 720 643 1001.
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Step 1
Upload Patient's CT scans with the DICOM image upload tool. We recommend that you zip your DICOM folder into one zip file and then send that zip file.
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ProJet MJP 2500/2500 Plus
MultiJet printing quality, speed and ease of use made accessible
ProX 800
SLA quality at high throughput to address the broadest range of applications
ProJet CJP 660Pro
Full CMYK, photo-realistic, integrated 3D printing solution
ProJet 7000 HD
Mid-range integrated solution for SLA quality and accuracy
DICOM 3D Modeling Software
Advanced Visualization Software
3D Sprint
Plastic Additive Manufacturing Software
Geomagic Freeform
Organic 3D Design Software
Accura ClearVue (SLA)
High clarity plastic, multitude of applications
Accura ABS White (SL 7810) (SLA)
Simulate and replace CNC-machined white ABS parts
VisiJet PXL (CJP)
From monochrome to full CMYK parts
VisiJet M2 ENT (MJP)
Elastomeric translucent natural