Brave New World: 3D Printing of the Orbit for Anatomy, Pathology, Surgical Simulation (.pdf)

3-Dimensional printing (3D printing), or additive manufacturing, is a novel technique used for rapidly producing physical models of complex structures. These physical models can be used to teach anatomy, simulate procedures, or test surgical anatomical approaches. This project explores the application of 3D printing to ophthalmologic disease. 3D printing has become more affordable and applicable to the clinical setting. Complex orbital anatomy and pathology can be evaluated using a multifaceted approach. We propose a paradigm to create orbital models to teach anatomy and demonstrate pathologies: thyroid related eye disease, idiopathic orbital inflammatory disease, neoplasm, and maxillofacial trauma.Purpose:To demonstrate how 3D printing can be used to produce physical orbit models for the teaching of orbital anatomy, demonstrating pathology, and simulating surgical and interventional procedures.