JMIR Publications published an article in its News and Perspectives section about how 3D printed anatomical models are being used to improve surgical outcomes. In “Printing for Personalized Medicine: 3D Models Drive Better Surgical Outcomes,” written by ICU nurse and health writer Jenna Condon, BSN, RN, ICU nurse and health writer Jenna Condon, BSN, RN reports how ear, nose, and throat surgeon Kyle Vankoeverling, M.D., first used 3D modeling to recreate and then print the head of a fetus with a facial mass that could obstruct the airway, in order to determine whether a risky surgical procedure was necessary during delivery. VanKoevrering’s Medical Modeling, Materials, and Manufacturing (M4) Laboratory at The Ohio State University has since been using 3D printing to reduce risk and support clinical outcomes. Hospitals around the world are participating in these efforts.
What are 3D printed medical models used for?
Congdon outlines the main uses for medical 3D printed models.
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Studying individual patient anatomy before surgery: Particularly useful for complex and delicate structures, 3D printed models allow surgeons to prepare for each patient’s unique anatomy and perform surgeries with greater precision.
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Development and manufacturing of patient-specific implants and prosthetic devices: We use 3D modeling and printing technology to create highly customized implants and prostheses to improve surgical and postoperative outcomes.
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Creating lifelike models for medical training: Residents can train using realistic models that mimic the colors and textures of real tissue, allowing them to improve their technical skills without putting human patients at risk.
What’s next for medical 3D modeling?
Although this technology has clear advantages, its adoption has so far been limited due to high initial costs and the need for additional regulatory approvals and training.
“Manufacturing implantable 3D printed models requires rigorous testing and FDA clearance, capabilities that M4 Labs does not yet have. Other medical facilities struggle with the high cost of setting up a 3D printing lab and integrating the additional training and interdisciplinary coordination required,” Congdon wrote. But Congdon also points out that the benefits of personalized surgical treatment could extend to long-term cost savings. Despite the hurdles, there is no denying that 3D modeling and printing has the potential to support personalized surgical treatment.
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Reference magazines:
Congdon, J. (2026). Printing personalized medicine: 3D models yield better surgical outcomes. Medical Internet Research Journal. Doi: 10.2196/100950. https://www.jmir.org/2026/1/e100950
