New partnership aims to transform 3D modelling for surgical planning

Fast Radius, a provider of digital manufacturing solutions, has partnered with medical 3D printing firm, Axial3D, to produce a high-quality, high-volume, and high-speed ‘DICOM-to-print’ service for surgeons and hospitals across North America. 

As a result of the two companies collaborating, clinicians across the United States, Canada, and Mexico will be able to receive enhanced insights for the creation of precision surgical plans, in more detail than is currently possible when relying on 2D imaging for this.

The insights will reportedly be provided in the form of micro-millimetre accurate, patient-specific 3D anatomical models, which are produced from the patient’s own 2D scans, and then shipped to the surgical team within 48 hours.

Why 3D printing?

3D printing enables a new standard of imaging and additional insight into the patient’s anatomical detail. The models can also be held in the surgeon’s hands and fully assessed. This allows surgeons to more accurately define and even practice a surgical plan before setting foot in the operating room - potentially improving surgical performance and patient care.

As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, there is a backlog of surgical procedures, and this technology could be useful for surgical teams dealing with the high workload.

Roger Johnston, CEO at Axial3D, said: “The partnership between Fast Radius and Axial3D comes at a critical time for healthcare institutions. We are now able to support surgeons and hospitals in the US minimise the impact of Covid-19 as they endeavour to return elective surgery capacity.”

Lou Rassey, CEO at Fast Radius, added: "Our mission at Fast Radius is to help companies make new things possible that advance the human condition. Partnering with Axial3D to make these surgical models will have a great impact on patient care. It's work we're proud to do.”