At present, the situation of the new coronavirus epidemic is severe, and relevant scientific researchers across China are working hard to continuously research the virus.
Recently, we have joined the project of “3D printed new coronavirus model”, and continuously communicated with medical researchers, doctors, 3D modeler, etc. We hope to help to print out a model of lung infection case, which will help doctors and scientists study it more intuitively. It’s also beneficial for doctors to explain the condition to patients and the government.
At present, we have 3D printed a new model of coronavirus lung infection case, which will be delivered to relevant hospitals for research and communication.
Unenhanced CT images in a 33-year-old woman. | Credit to RSNA
A: The image shows multiple ground-glass opacities in bilateral lungs. Ground-glass opacities are seen in the posterior segment of the right upper lobe and apical posterior segment of the left superior lobe.
B: Image obtained 3 days after follow-up shows progressive ground-glass opacities in the posterior segment of the right upper lobe and apical posterior segment of the left superior lobe.
The bilateralism of the peripheral lung opacities, without subpleural sparing, are common CT findings of the 2019 novel coronavirus pneumonia.
Our modeling is based on a lung lesion that was diagnosed about 5 days after the infection. After the 3D reconstruction of the CT image of the lesion to obtain model data, it is printed using a full-color 3D printer. We use the Polyjet technology Stratasys J750 3D printer to print, adjust the Shore hardness to adjust the soft hardness, adjust the different transparency and color to build a realistic and vivid model of coronavirus lung infection case.
This medical lesion model is modeled under the guidance of relevant doctors and will be sent to the hospital for research by experts in the respiratory field. It is convenient for them to explain the case entity analysis as well as the evolution process. New coronavirus model data has been mapped in medical institutions in Wuhan and Shanghai. After revising the data, the virus models can be 3D printed for medical use.
3D printing technology can quickly assist in the analysis of physical model evolution and the delivery of physical models in the field of medical emergencies. By 3D modeling of the new coronavirus, we can clearly know its crystal structure, gene structure, etc.
The 3D printed model will help scientists to conduct better research. For the presentation of intersecting complex structures in medical models, as long as the 3D model is designed, it can be printed using transparent/translucent/full-color 3D printing technology.