The 5 Key Steps to Producing 3D Printed Anatomical Models

Meredith Telford, from Axial3D’s Medical Visualization team, discusses the five key steps to 3D printing patient specific preoperative models on SLA printers

At Axial3D, our patient-specific 3D printed preoperative planning models are primarily made using stereolithography (SLA) printers which print exactly accurately layer by layer.

SLA models are produced to reflect bone in their properties and appearance. With our up to date technologies, we can produce and deliver a patient specific model 48 hours after receiving data.

The process of SLA Printing:

1) After pre-processing the patient specific data a digital 3D model is created and uploaded to our printers.

2) When printing the photo sensitive resin is cured using a UV laser, layer by layer causing polymerization of the resin meaning the resin will cure.

3) Once the initial layer is cured the build platform will adjust and the next layer begins and this will continue. Due to this method of printing the models we produce have strong bonds between each layer creating a strong durable material.

4) Once our models are printed, washed and cured properly, manual post processing will begin. This consists of filing and sanding excess resin and support marks to produce a well finished accurate model.

5) If required, curing solutions may be added to finalize the quality and appearance of our models for their intended purpose.

"With our up to date technologies, we can produce and deliver a patient specific model 48 hours after receiving data."