1. Application of 3D Printed Anatomical Model in Pre-operational Planning.

Scoliosis is one of the intrinsic problems among many complicated spine deformities which surgeons might encounter during surgeries. Rotation of the vertebrae body, disappearing or deformity of vertebral pedicle and abnormality of segments are the symptoms of scoliosis, which distort the anatomical marks of pedicle screw insertions and hence increase operation difficulty. 3D printed anatomical models can make up for the deficiency in medical imaging (including CT and MRI), and provide surgeons with higher dimensional aspect diagnosing patients’ symptoms and hence help them plan procedure efficiently and forecast challenges to be encountered in surgeries.

Besides, 3D printed anatomical models can be used as devices for training practitioners and educating patients. With 3D printed model, surgeons are able to explain the conditions and the goal to be accomplished in the surgery more efficiently their patients; and also customized models can provide surgical trainees better simulated surgeries.

2. Application of Novel Customized Tools in Navigation

Pedicle screws are the most common internal fixation technique in spine surgeries.

The anatomical location of the nervous system makes insertion of pedicle screws much dangerous and challenging, especially in cervical surgeries or for patients with scoliosis. 3D printed navigation plate costs much less than the surgical navigation robot, and also simply ensures the insertion of pedicle screws (i.e. location and angle) accuracy and hence reduces risk and surgical difficulties dramatically.