Use of 3D Printing in Teaching Human Anatomy in the Medical Course
Literature Review
Abstract
Introduction: Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a modern technique of creating 3D-printed models that allows reproduction of anatomical models for teaching anatomy. It has the advantage of higher reproducibility and manipulation by the students. Objective: The objective of this review was to describe the advantages and disadvantages of the utilization of 3D printing in teaching human anatomy. Methods: Literature review study with articles published in 2019-2023. A literature search was performed in the electronic PubMed database (National Library of Medicine, NCBI) using the following terms: anatomy, learning, teaching, medical education and 3D printing. Results: The search yielded 235 results, which were narrowed down to 31 articles after application of exclusion criteria. The literature supported that 3D printing is a useful tool for teaching anatomy. The main advantages were visual characteristics, such as authenticity, variability of consistencies, colors and transparency, reproducibility, possibility of manipulation by the students, long-term knowledge retention, and student satisfaction. However, the main disadvantages are related to the design such as: consistency, lack of detail, overly bright colors, long printing time, and high cost. Conclusion: This review demonstrates that 3D printed models have the potential to aid students in learning anatomy. From a pedagogical perspective, 3D printing is an effective tool for teaching anatomy, as evidenced by long-term knowledge retention and student satisfaction.
References
Abdulcadir, J., Dewaele, R., Firmenich, N., Remuinan, J., Petignat, P., Botsikas, D., & Brockmann, C. (2020). In Vivo Imaging-Based 3-Dimensional Pelvic Prototype Models to Improve Education Regarding Sexual Anatomy and Physiology. The journal of sexual medicine, 17(9), 1590-1602. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.05.025
Backhouse, S., Taylor, D., & Armitage, J. A. (2019). Is This Mine to Keep? Three-dimensional Printing Enables Active, Personalized Learning in Anatomy. Anatomical sciences education, 12(5), 518-528. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1840
Bannon, R., Parihar, S., Skarparis, Y., Varsou, O., & Cezayirli, E. (2018). 3D printing the pterygopalatine fossa: a negative space model of a complex structure. Surgical and radiologic anatomy: SRA, 40(2), 185-191. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-017-1916-x
Ben Awadh, A., Clark, J., Clowry, G., & Keenan, I.D. (2022). Multimodal Three-Dimensional Visualization Enhances Novice Learner Interpretation of Basic Cross-Sectional Anatomy. Anatomical sciences education, 15(1), 127-142. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.2045
Bergman E.M. (2015). Discussing dissection in anatomy education. Perspectives on medical education, 4(5), 211-213. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40037-015-0207-7.
Bertolini, M., Rossoni, M., & Colombo, G. (2021). Operative Workflow from CT to 3D Printing of the Heart: Opportunities and Challenges. Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland), 8(10), 130. https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering8100130
Brumpt, E., Bertin, E., Tatu, L., & Louvrier, A. (2023). 3D printing as a pedagogical tool for teaching normal human anatomy: a systematic review. BMC medical education, 23(1), 783. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-023-04744-w
Cai, B., Rajendran, K., Bay, B.H., Lee, J., & Yen, C.C. (2019). The Effects of a Functional Three-dimensional (3D) Printed Knee Joint Simulator in Improving Anatomical Spatial Knowledge. Anatomical sciences education, 12(6), 610-618. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1847
Casciato, D.J., Builes, N.A., & Singh, B.N. (2018). Using Three-Dimensional Printing to Enhance Cross-Sectional Anatomy Instruction. Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association, 108(4), 304-310. https://doi.org/10.7547/16-137
Cercenelli, L., De Stefano, A., Billi, AM, Ruggeri, A., Marcelli, E., Marchetti, C., Manzoli, L., Ratti, S., & Badiali, G. (2022). AEducaAR, Anatomical Education in Augmented Reality: A Pilot Experience of an Innovative Educational Tool Combining AR Technology and 3D Printing. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(3), 1024. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031024
Chae, R., Sharon, JD, Kournoutas, I., Ovunc, SS, Wang, M., Abla, AA, El-Sayed, IH, & Rubio, RR (2020). Replicating Skull Base Anatomy With 3D Technologies: A Comparative Study Using 3D-scanned and 3D-printed Models of the Temporal Bone. Otology & neurotology: official publication of the American Otological Society, American Neurotology Society [and] European Academy of Otology and Neurotology, 41(3), e392-e403. https://doi.org/10.1097/MAO.0000000000002524
Chandrasekaran, R., Radzi, S., Kai, P.Z., Rajalingam, P., Rotgans, J., & Mogali, S.R. (2022). A validated instrument measuring students' perceptions on plastinated and three-dimensional printed anatomy tools. Anatomical Sciences Education, 15(5), 850-862. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.2147
Chedid, VG, Kamath, AA, M. Knudsen, J., Frimannsdottir, K., Yost, KJ, R. Geske, J., Morris, JM, Taner, T., Matsumoto, JM, e Kamath, PS (2020). Three-Dimensional-Printed Liver Model Helps Learners Identify Hepatic Subsegments: A Randomized-Controlled Cross-Over Trial. The American journal of gastroenterology, 115(11), 1906-1910. https://doi.org/10.14309/ajg.0000000000000958
Chen, J., Kumar, S., Shallal, C., Leo, KT, Girard, A., Bai, Y., Li, Y., Jackson, EM, Cohen, AR, & Yang, R. (2022). Caregiver Preferences for Three-Dimensional Printed or Augmented Reality Craniosynostosis Skull Models: A Cross-Sectional Survey. The Journal of craniofacial surgery, 33(1), 151-155. https://doi.org/10.1097/SCS.0000000000008134
Chen, Y., Qian, C., Shen, R., Wu, D., Bian, L., Qu, H., Fan, X., Liu, Z., Li, Y., & Xia, J. (2020). 3D Printing Technology Improves Medical Interns' Understanding of Anatomy of Gastrocolic Trunk. Journal of surgical education, 77(5), 1279-1284. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsurg.2020.02.031
Chytas, D., Johnson, EO, Piagkou, M., Tsakotos, G., Babis, GC, Nikolaou, VS, Markatos, K., & Natsis, K. (2020). Three-dimensional printing in anatomy teaching: current evidence. Surgical and radiologic anatomy: SRA, 42(7), 835-841. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-020-02470-2
Drake, R.L., McBride, J.M., & Pawlina, W. (2014). An update on the status of anatomical sciences education in United States medical schools. Anatomical sciences education, 7(4), 321-325. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1468
Fornaziero, C.C., & Gil, C.R.R. (2003). Novas Tecnologias Aplicadas ao Ensino da Anatomia Humana. Revista Brasileira de Educação Médica, 27(2), 141-146. https://doi.org/10.1590/1981-5271v27.2-009
Garas, M., Vaccarezza, M., Newland, G., McVay-Doornbusch, K., & Hasani, J. (2018). 3D-Printed specimens as a valuable tool in anatomy education: A pilot study. Annals of Anatomy - Anatomischer Anzeiger, 219, 57-64. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aanat.2018.05.006
Ghosh, S.K. (2017). Cadaveric dissection as an educational tool for anatomical sciences in the 21st century. Anatomical sciences education, 10(3), 286-299. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1649
Hammerton, C., Yip, S.W.L., Manobharath, N., Myers, G., & Sturrock, A. (2022). Are 3D printed models acceptable in assessment? The clinical teacher, 19(3), 221-228. https://doi.org/10.1111/tct.13477
Harmon, D.J., Klein, B.A., Im, C., & Romero, D. (2022). Development and implementation of a three-dimensional (3D) printing elective course for health science students. Anatomical sciences education, 15(3), 620-627. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.2133
Hojo, D., Murono, K., Nozawa, H., Kawai, K., Hata, K., Tanaka, T., Oba, K., & Ishihara, S. (2019). Utility of a Three-Dimensional Printed Pelvic Model for Lateral Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection Education: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of the American College of Surgeons, 229(6), 552-559.e3. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jamcollsurg.2019.08.1443
Holm, M.A., Emfield, K., Iles, T.L., & Iaizzo, P.A. (2022). High-resolution 3D reconstructions of human vasculatures: creation of educational tools and benchtop models for transcatheter devices. Cardiovascular intervention and therapeutics, 37(3), 519-525. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12928-021-00804-4
Jones, D.B., Sung, R., Weinberg, C., Korelitz, T., & Andrews, R. (2016). Three-Dimensional Modeling May Improve Surgical Education and Clinical Practice. Surgical innovation, 23(2), 189-195. https://doi.org/10.1177/1553350615607641
Lim, K.H., Loo, Z.Y., Goldie, S.J., Adams, J.W., & McMenamin, P.G. (2016). Use of 3D printed models in medical education: A randomized control trial comparing 3D prints versus cadaveric materials for learning external cardiac anatomy. Anatomical sciences education, 9(3), 213-221. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1573
Low, C.M., Choby, G., Viozzi, M., & Morris, J.M. (2020). Construction of three-dimensional printed anatomic models for frontal sinus education. The neuroradiology journal, 33(1), 80-84. https://doi.org/10.1177/1971400919849781
McHanwell, S., Brenner, E., Chirculescu, ARM, Drukker, J., van Mameren, H., Mazzotti, G., Pais, D., Paulsen, F., Plaisant, O., Caillaud, MM, Laforet, E., Riedere, BM, Sanudo, JR, Bueno-Lopez, JL, Donate-Oliver, F., Sprumont, P., Teofilovski-Parapid, G., & Moxham, BJ (2008). The legal and ethical framework governing Body Donation in Europe- a review of current practice and recommendations for good practice. European Journal of Anatomy, 12(1), 1-24. https://www.eurjanat.com/v1/journal/paper.php?id=08010001
McMenamin, P.G., Quayle, M.R., McHenry, C.R., & Adams, J.W. (2014). The production of anatomical teaching resources using three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. Anatomical sciences education, 7(6), 479-486. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1475
Miao, H., Ding, J., Gong, X., Zhao, J., Li, H., Xiong, K., Zhou, X., Liu, W., & Wu, F. (2023). Application of 3D-printed pulmonary segment specimens in experimental teaching of sectional anatomy. BMC Surgery, 23(1), 109. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12893-023-02022-6
Mogali, SR, Chandrasekaran, R., Radzi, S., Peh, ZK, Tan, GJS, Rajalingam, P., & Yeong, WY (2022). Investigating the effectiveness of three-dimensionally printed anatomical models compared with plastinated human specimens in learning cardiac and neck anatomy: A randomized crossover study. Anatomical sciences education, 15(6), 1007-1017. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.2128
Netterstrøm, I., & Kayser, L. (2008). Learning to be a doctor while learning anatomy! Anatomical sciences education, 1(4), 154-158. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.31
O'Brien, C., Souza, C.A., Sheikh, A., Miguel, O., & Wood, T. (2021). Use of tracheobronchial tree 3-dimensional printed model: does it improve trainees' understanding of segmentation anatomy? A prospective study. 3D printing in medicine, 7(1), 2. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41205-020-00092-3
Papa, V., & Vaccarezza, M. (2013). Teaching anatomy in the XXI century: new aspects and pitfalls. The Scientific World Journal, 310348. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/310348
Radzi, S., Tan, HKJ, Tan, GJS, Yeong, WY, Ferenczi, MA, Low-Beer, N., & Mogali, SR (2020). Development of a three-dimensional printed heart from computed tomography images of a plastinated specimen for learning anatomy. Anatomy & cell biology, 53(1), 48-57. https://doi.org/10.5115/acb.19.153
Salazar, D., Thompson, M., Rosen, A., & Zuniga, J. (2022). Using 3D Printing to Improve Student Education of Complex Anatomy: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Medical science educator, 32(5), 1209-1218. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40670-022-01595-w
Santos, V.A., Barreira, M.P., & Saad, K.R. (2022). Technological resources for teaching and learning about human anatomy in the medical course: Systematic review of literature. Anatomical sciences education, 15(2), 403-419. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.2142
Shen, Z., Yao, Y., Xie, Y., Guo, C., Shang, X., Dong, X., Li, Y., Pan, X., Chen, S., Xiong, G., Wang, FY, & Pan, H. (2019). The process of 3D printed skull models for anatomy education. Computer assisted surgery (Abingdon, England), 24(sup1), 121-130. https://doi.org/10.1080/24699322.2018.1560101
Skrzat, J., Zdilla, M.J., Brzegowy, P., & Hołda, M. (2019). 3 D printed replica of the human temporal bone intended for teaching gross anatomy. Folia medica Cracoviensia, 59(3), 23-30. https://doi.org/10.24425/fmc.2019.131133
Smillie, R.W., Williams, M.A., Richard, M., & Cosker, T. (2021). Producing three-dimensional printed models of the hepatobiliary system from computed tomography imaging data. Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, 103(1), 41-46. https://doi.org/10.1308/rcsann.2020.0191
Smith, C.F., Tollemache, N., Covill, D., & Johnston, M. (2018). Take away body parts! An investigation into the use of 3D-printed anatomical models in undergraduate anatomy education. Anatomical sciences education, 11(1), 44-53. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1718
Tan, L., Wang, Z., Jiang, H., Han, B., Tang, J., Kang, C., Zhang, N., & Xu, Y. (2022). Full color 3D printing of anatomical models. Clinical anatomy (New York, N.Y.), 35(5), 598-608. https://doi.org/10.1002/ca.23875
Tanner, J.A., Jethwa, B., Jackson, J., Bartanuszova, M., King, T.S., Bhattacharya, A., & Sharma, R. (2020). A Three-Dimensional Print Model of the Pterygopalatine Fossa Significantly Enhances the Learning Experience. Anatomical sciences education, 13(5), 568-580. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1942
Triepels, CPR, Koppes, DM, Van Kuijk, SMJ, Popeijus, HE, Lamers, WH, van Gorp, T., Futterer, JJ, Kruitwagen, RFPM, & Notten, KJB (2018). Medical students’ perspective on training in anatomy. Annals of Anatomy - Anatomischer Anzeiger, 217, 60-65. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aanat.2018.01.006
Vaccarezza, M., & Papa, V. (2015). 3D printing: a valuable resource in human anatomy education. Anatomical science international, 90(1), 64-65. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12565-014-0257-7
Varner, C., Dixon, L., & Simons, M.C. (2021). The Past, Present, and Future: A Discussion of Cadaver Use in Medical and Veterinary Education. Frontiers in veterinary science, 8, 720740. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2021.720740
Weatherall, A.D., Rogerson, M.D., Quayle, M.R., Cooper, M.G., McMenamin, P.G., & Adams, J.W. (2021). A Novel 3-Dimensional Printing Fabrication Approach for the Production of Pediatric Airway Models. Anesthesia and analgesia, 133(5), 1251-1259. https://doi.org/10.1213/ANE.0000000000005260
Wilk, R., Likus, W., Hudecki, A., Syguła, M., Różycka-Nechoritis, A., & Nechoritis, K. (2020). What would you like to print? Students' opinions on the use of 3D printing technology in medicine. PloS One, 15(4), e0230851. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0230851
Williams, M.A., Smillie, R.W., Richard, M., & Cosker, T.D.A. (2020). Producing 3D printed high-fidelity retroperitoneal models from in vivo patient data: The Oxford Method. Journal of anatomy, 237(6), 1177-1184. https://doi.org/10.1111/joa.13278
Ye, Z., Dun, A., Jiang, H., Nie, C., Zhao, S., Wang, T., & Zhai, J. (2020). The role of 3D printed models in the teaching of human anatomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC medical education, 20(1), 335. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-020-02242-x
Ye, Z., Jiang, H., Bai, S., Wang, T., Yang, D., Hou, H., Zhang, Y., & Yi, S. (2023). Meta-analyzing the efficacy of 3D printed models in anatomy education. Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology, 11, 1117555. https://doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2023.1117555
Yi, X., Ding, C., Xu, H., Huang, T., Kang, D., & Wang, D. (2019). Three-Dimensional Printed Models in Anatomy Education of the Ventricular System: A Randomized Controlled Study. World neurosurgery, 125, e891-e901. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wneu.2019.01.204
Zhang, X., Xu, Z., Tan, L., Li, Y., Liu, L., Chen, N., Zhang, S., Lamers, WH, Wu, C., & Wu, Y. (2019). Application of three-dimensional reconstruction and printing as an elective course for undergraduate medical students: an exploratory trial. Surgical and radiologic anatomy: SRA, 41(10), 1193-1204. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00276-019-02248-1
Author Biographies
http://lattes.cnpq.br/4882438925236961
http://lattes.cnpq.br/6780676773042373
Copyright (c) 2025 Lecturas: Educación Física y Deportes
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
