Knee model

surgical

Patient-specific 3D anatomical models are created from patients’ radiological examination (computed tomography and magnetic resonance tomography) images using special certified software. Anatomical models can be used in two forms: virtual anatomical models (for example, virtual models used in in pre-surgical planning software), or actual anatomical models which are materialized using additive manufacturing technologies. Use of patient-specific anatomical models in clinical practice Patient-specific anatomical models are used as a base for designing patient-specific implants and patient-specific surgical guides. They are used as a surgeon-manufacturer communication tool during pre-surgical planning, when the surgeon defines requirements for the design of a patient-specific implant and proceed to the validation of the design. More detailed information about the design of patient-specific implants and pre-surgical planning here. Patient-specific anatomical models are also used as an assistive device when planning surgeries during which an implant is not applied. They allow assessing the topology of anatomical surfaces, the location and the ratio of pathological structures compared with healthy tissues. Manufactured using plaster and additive manufacturing technology Ink-Jet. Thanks to the Ink-Jet technology, such models are made multi-coloured in order to obtain more detailed visualization of the anatomical model. However, the plaster is not biocompatible and the models made from it cannot be used in the operating theatre. They are usually used for educational purposes only.