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Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy

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Open Access 01-02-2018 | Teaching Anatomy

3D printing the pterygopalatine fossa: a negative space model of a complex structure

Authors: Ross Bannon, Shivani Parihar, Yiannis Skarparis, Ourania Varsou, Enis Cezayirli

Published in: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy | Issue 2/2018

Abstract

Purpose

The pterygopalatine fossa is one of the most complex anatomical regions to understand. It is poorly visualized in cadaveric dissection and most textbooks rely on schematic depictions. We describe our approach to creating a low-cost, 3D model of the pterygopalatine fossa, including its associated canals and foramina, using an affordable “desktop” 3D printer.

Methods

We used open source software to create a volume render of the pterygopalatine fossa from axial slices of a head computerised tomography scan. These data were then exported to a 3D printer to produce an anatomically accurate model.

Results

The resulting ‘negative space’ model of the pterygopalatine fossa provides a useful and innovative aid for understanding the complex anatomical relationships of the pterygopalatine fossa.

Conclusion

This model was designed primarily for medical students; however, it will also be of interest to postgraduates in ENT, ophthalmology, neurosurgery, and radiology. The technical process described may be replicated by other departments wishing to develop their own anatomical models whilst incurring minimal costs.

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Title: 3D printing the pterygopalatine fossa: a negative space model of a complex structure
Authors: Ross Bannon
Shivani Parihar
Yiannis Skarparis
Ourania Varsou
Enis Cezayirli
Publication date: 01-02-2018
Publisher: Springer Paris
Published in: Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy / Issue 2/2018
Print ISSN: 0930-1038
Electronic ISSN: 1279-8517
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-017-1916-x

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Springer Medicine

3D printing the pterygopalatine fossa: a negative space model of a complex structure

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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