Figure 1.

Workflow of applying 3D printing in the preoperative planning. To begin with, a 3D reconstructed image needs to be generated by patient specific CT/MR image. Then a 3D physical object can be manufactured by 3D printing using 3D reconstructed digitalized model. This 3D model can not only be used for precise surgical measurement and rehearsal, but also for developing customized implants or casts for surgical guidance or postoperative rehabilitation. PACS, picture archiving and communication system; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; CT, computed tomography; 3D, three-dimensional; CAD, computer aided design; FEA, finite element analysis.