How to Do 3D Modeling for CT Surgery [1]
3D modeling is the process of developing a mathematical representation of any 3D surface of an object via specialized software. The product is called a 3D model. It can be displayed as a two-dimensional image through a process called 3D rendering, a computer simulation of physical phenomena, or an actual physical model or hologram.
The nine steps to 3D printing reviewed include the following:
- Collaboration
- Import DICOM for segmentation - high resolution imaging data from contrast chest CT and MR; then import DICOM data for segmentation (Materialise software).
- Segmentation and color coding - segmentation is the separation and color coding of important anatomy for the surgeon: tumor, aorta, SVC, tracheal bronchial tree, pulmonary vessels, and upper chest wall including upper spine, ribs and clavicle and sternum. The brachial plexus can be segmented from MR imaging data and co-registered on the CT using bony landmarks. Segmentation and color coding anatomy is done with proprietary software (Mimics Innovation Suite - V. 18). Each item segmented becomes its own STL file.
- Conversion of segmented data into virtual 3D
- Conversion of data into an STL for printing (using 3Matics software)
- Export STL to printer, selecting material & colors
- Print model and support material
- Post processing of the model
- Review model
This video is authored by Shanda Blackmon, MD, MPH and Jane Matsumoto, MD.