3D printing: clinical applications in orthopaedics and traumatology

Advances in image processing have led to the clinical use of 3D printing technology, giving the surgeon a realistic physical model of the anatomy upon which he or she will operate. Relying on CT images, the surgeon creates a virtual 3D model of the target anatomy from a series of bi-dimensional images, translating the information contained in CT images into a more usable format. 3D printed models can play a central role in surgical planning and in the training of novice surgeons, as well as reducing the rate of re-operation.