The 3 D Printing Age and Basic Sciences Education

Abstract

Acquiring teaching resources is challenging for many medical schools, in particular the acquisition of cadavers for anatomy labs. Cadavers are not easy to store, and are costly to maintain. With threedimensional (3 D) printing, one can create nonperishable anatomy specimens that will overcome some of those challenges. For the purpose of teaching human anatomy at University of Ottawa, highly realistic 3 D printed models (heart, kidney and gastrointestinal system) were created. Images in stereolithography (STL) format were downloaded for free from Thingverse community and printed using Makerbot replicator 2 X machines, using the makerspace facility, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ottawa. The primary advantage of this technique is its ability to create almost any shape or geometric feature. Unlike cadavers, 3 D printed models will not deteriorate so they are also cost effective. This technological development is becoming more and more popular. Eventually, it will impact every single aspect of our lives.