Rating of Polymers for Low-Cost Rapid Manufacturing of Individualized Anatomical Models Used in Presurgical Planning

Abstract

Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing, especially during last few years, become one of the most common tool in creating objects with complicated geometry and in small production as well. Intensive use of these technologies shall be noted in areas like military, transport and general production but also in medicine. Presurgical support and preparation of a surgeon with use of these technologies, especially in complex cases, can help prepare more precise plan of surgery and perform a simulated operation. The aim of these studies was to classify polymer materials for low-cost Rapid Manufacturing, which have to imitate human soft tissue. Materials in future will be used to manufacture personalized anatomical models for presurgical planning and simulative operations on kidneys.