Three-Dimensional Printing (3 DP Models)

A three-dimensional printing technology is used to create a lower cost, less detailed model made of plaster. A printer head travels across a layer of plaster releasing a binder in the pattern of the cross section of the anatomy. Successive layers of the anatomy are constructed in .004 inch increments until the model is completed.

3DP models are made from plaster that is infiltrated with cyanoacrylate during post processing. These models are not as accurate as the SLA models but they cost about half as much. The models have enough strength and accuracy for cutting and prebending plates for treatment planning.