Role of CT and MRI in the design and development of orthopaedic model using additive manufacturing

Objective: To study the role of Computed tomography (CT) and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for design and development of orthopaedic model using additive manufacturing (AM) technologies.

Methods: A significant number of research papers in this area are studied to provide the direction of development along with the future scope.

Results: Briefly discussed various steps used to create a 3D model by Additive Manufacturing using CT and MRI scan. These scanning technologies are used to produce medical as well as orthopaedic implants by using AM technologies. The images so produced are exported in different software like OsiriX Imaging Software, 3D slicer, Mimics, Magics, 3D doctor and InVesalius to produce a 3D digital model. Various criteria's achieved by CT and MRI scan for design and development of orthopaedic implant using additive manufacturing are also discussed briefly. AM model created by this process show exact shape, size, dimensions, textures, colour and features.

Conclusion: AM technologies help to convert the digital model into a 3D physical object, thereby improving the understanding of patient anatomy for treatment as well as for educational purpose. These scanning technologies have various applications to enhance the AM in the field of orthopaedic. In orthopaedic every patient model is a customised unit, sourced from the individual patient. 3D CAD data captured by these scanning technologies are directly exported in standard triangulate language (STL) format for printing by AM technologies. Crossestion of the physical model fabricated by this process shows a patient's anatomy if the model prepared by using the bone-like material.