3D printing helps surgeons plan and practice ahead of procedures

A new 3D printing laboratory is making it possible for surgeons to create models of patients’ anatomy. This now means that the three dimensional teachnique might soon replace the conventional method of assessing ailments such as tumours, fractures or deformities affecting their patients’ musculoskeletal system. This includes X-rays, computer tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) commonly used to examine the anatomy of patients.
Joining us online is Dr Rudolph Venter, Orthopaedic Surgeon and lecturer in Clinical Anatomy at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University.