Our Process

In collaboration with Mayo Clinic, true to life anatomic and pathology is captured from radiologic imaging. This is then imported into a medical CAD software to start the process of 3D Modeling. 

CT scans, MRI, and less commonly 3D ultrasound are labelled by a process known as segmentation. This allows the program to identify and isolate relevant structures while removing unwanted details from the radiologic studies to create a digital life size anatomically accurate 3D model or mesh.

The digital 3D model is converted into a series of triangular meshes, minor modifications including fixing irregularities in the mesh, smoothing objects, assigning colors, and texture mapping are all performed to prepare the file for 3D printing. Each design includes adding connectors or including partitions for easier disassembly.

The digital 3D model is exported to a 3D printer. Each model is printed using an additive manufacturing technique that adds support materials and layers to reproduce the model as a physical representation of the original patient anatomy. Post processing then occurs to remove the support material.

Starting with Mayo’s pre-surgical 3D printed models, 3DA determines if additional minor sculpting, texturing, or colorization is required before 3D printing the educational models. This process refines the anatomical accuracy, while improving the manufacturability of each model. Ultimately, providing the most durable, accurate and realistic anatomy models for the medical education industry.

 3DA prides ourselves on ensuring the 3D CAD files developed will produce the best medical models available using 3DP technologies. Working side by side with Mayo’s AMU team,  all models are reviewed and countless hours spent during the final design phases, validating the anatomy accuracy. Models are tested and built at Mayo’s AMU facilities and quality approved, before determining the models are ready for production. Weekly quality review meetings between Mayo, 3DA and Mass Persona,  further emphasizes quality assurance, throughout the manufacturing process.

The GPI 3D Anatomy team monitors every step of the 3D model development and production processes. 3DA models will be made at 2 locations :  Mayo Clinic  or  Mass Persona (3DA’s production partner). Mayo and Mass Persona,  are experts using the same 3DP production machines and equipment.