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The role of 3D printing in teaching and education in human skeletal anatomy
Author(s) -
Carter Yasmin,
Allard Travis T,
Moore N Collin,
Goertzen Andrew L,
Klonisch Thomas,
Hoppa Robert D
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.23.1_supplement.479.1
Subject(s) - human anatomy , general partnership , 3d model , magnification , software , variety (cybernetics) , 3d printing , computer science , data science , anatomy , medicine , artificial intelligence , engineering , mechanical engineering , finance , economics , programming language
The project represents a partnership between physical anthropology and human anatomy for the creation of 3D anatomical models for research and training. The models were created from post‐mortem X‐Ray CT scans of teaching cadavers. Initial steps involved identifying tissues, structures or regions of interest, and segmenting the structures of interest. Once a 3D model was rendered, further editing and refinement was required for 3D printing. CT scans were undertaken at the Health Sciences Centre, University of Manitoba. Analysis of the data was undertaken in the Bioanthropology Digital Image Analysis Laboratory (BDIAL), University of Manitoba. The data were edited and rendered using Materialise MIMICS and INUS Rapidform software. Physical models were created using a Z‐Corp Z406 3D printer. Preliminary input from students demonstrates the impact of the models for training and research, particularly the hand‐on nature of viewing models. Of particular benefit is the ability to reveal hidden structures at increased magnification, facilitating better understanding of the anatomical relationship of structures not easily visible in cadavers or photos. The use of 3D printing provides an innovative, on‐demand, pedagogical tool benefiting a variety of training needs, including physical anthropology, clinical and basic medical sciences. Funded by University of Manitoba; Canada Research Chairs Program.