Radiology
3D Printing and Post Processing

A new era of advanced image processing

Using new technologies, 3D printing enables our team to translate diagnostic images into exact 3D replicas used by surgeons and other doctors to prepare for surgery and explain procedures or anomalies to you and your family. The machine used within the 3D lab creates the model by layering melted plastic. Among the uses for these physical models are:

Airway surgeries
Bone surgeries
Cardiac surgeries

Computer modeling tools — which have been available for years — can show a very precise picture of the organs or bones using a CT scan to facilitate surgical planning. The 3D printing process provides additional value over these computer-based techniques. The new physical model (3D print) can be used as a teaching tool for educating residents and new doctors. It can also help explain procedures to families, allowing them to see an organ replica and understand what will take place once in surgery. These models are already being used in many adult hospitals, and Texas Children’s Hospital believes they benefit children and their parents, too.