February 28, 2017 — EchoPixel recently announced True 3-D print support functionality, a new set of software tools designed to assist physicians using models they create with their 3-D printers built on EchoPixel’s True 3-D Viewer software. The workflows allow medical professionals to visualize and interact with patient-specific anatomy that can be directly converted into 3-D-printed models. This allows professionals to create their models with greater quality and accuracy, and to print right the first time.
EchoPixel’s existing True 3-D Viewer software enables physicians to see and interact with medical images the way they would with real, physical objects. The system converts existing DICOM datasets into life-size virtual reality objects, allowing physicians to move, turn, dissect and cut open virtual patient anatomy. The new software tools facilitate seamless transition to printing of 3-D models once a professional has determined the desired anatomy and orientation to print.
When supported by EchoPixel’s software tools, 3-D modeling has numerous potential benefits across a range of medical applications. These may include:
- Improved communication and collaboration among different members of the surgical team, including surgeons and other OR staff;
- Enhanced pre-operative planning and better interactive understanding of unique anatomy that can be used as a reference during surgery;
- Mirror-image modeling used for reconstruction templates;
- Practice on models for surgical residents work hours; and
- Increased patient education.
“We’re excited to establish 3-D virtual viewing as part of our 3-D program,” said Steve Muyskens, M.D., cardiologist at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas. “Having this technology, in addition to 3-D printing capabilities, allows Cook Children’s cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons to improve the planning of complex procedures and surgeries. We believe this approach will eventually lead to less time in the operating room and fewer complications.”
EchoPixel demonstrated its True 3-D Viewer and its Print Support functionality in HP’s booth at the 2017 Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society conference and exhibition (HIMSS 2017), Feb. 19-23 in Orlando, Fla.
For more information: www.echopixeltech.com