Complex veterinary cases are made easier through 3D printing technology

The University Libraries at Virginia Tech and the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine partner to create 3D models for complex surgical cases.

Dr. Otto Lanz, professor of small animal surgery, and Kiri Debose, head of the Veterinary Medicine Library, have been working together to blend the technologies both in the classroom and operating room. By using several CT scans, Kiri converts 2D images into an exact 3D model, which is then used by Dr. Lanz as a teaching and learning tool on difficult cases.

This exciting technology forges new ways to engage students and animal owners both pre and post-op. The 3D models give everyone a better understanding of the anatomy of the animal, the disease process taking place, and the path to address the issue.