Description
This 3D print presents the same dataset that underlies our Circle of Willis and cranial arterial circulation 3D prints and is derived from careful segmentation of angiographic data. Here, the dural venous sinus network has been segmented based on structures visible from the circulation of contrast medium in the late phase of filling. As a result, while most of the sinuses are present, the lack of contrast in the anterior portions of the venous system means that some structures are not as clear in the model as may be expected, for example the cavernous sinus and inferior petrosal sinus.
The extensive network of dural veins and venous lacunae are visible, which drain towards the midline in the superior sagittal sinus. Deep to this network of sinus veins are the great cerebral vein which drains with the inferior sagittal sinus into the straight sinus which then converges with the superior sagittal at the confluence of sinuses. Several dural veins drain into the left and right transverse sinuses as they pass anteriorly towards the petrous portion of the temporal bone. The sigmoid sinuses can be seen in the posterior cranial fossa prior to exiting the skull at the jugular foramen and forming the internal jugular vein (visible on the inferior surface of the skull).
Advantages of 3D Printed Anatomical Models
- 3D printed anatomical models are the most anatomically accurate examples of human anatomy because they are based on real human specimens.
- Avoid the ethical complications and complex handling, storage, and documentation requirements with 3D printed models when compared to human cadaveric specimens.
- 3D printed anatomy models are far less expensive than real human cadaveric specimens.
- Reproducibility and consistency allow for standardization of education and faster availability of models when you need them.
- Customization options are available for specific applications or educational needs. Enlargement, highlighting of specific anatomical structures, cutaway views, and more are just some of the customizations available.
Disadvantages of Human Cadavers
- Access to cadavers can be problematic and ethical complications are hard to avoid. Many countries cannot access cadavers for cultural and religious reasons.
- Human cadavers are costly to procure and require expensive storage facilities and dedicated staff to maintain them. Maintenance of the facility alone is costly.
- The cost to develop a cadaver lab or plastination technique is extremely high. Those funds could purchase hundreds of easy to handle, realistic 3D printed anatomical replicas.
- Wet specimens cannot be used in uncertified labs. Certification is expensive and time-consuming.
- Exposure to preservation fluids and chemicals is known to cause long-term health problems for lab workers and students. 3D printed anatomical replicas are safe to handle without any special equipment.
- Lack of reuse and reproducibility. If a dissection mistake is made, a new specimen has to be used and students have to start all over again.
Disadvantages of Plastinated Specimens
- Like real human cadaveric specimens, plastinated models are extremely expensive.
- Plastinated specimens still require real human samples and pose the same ethical issues as real human cadavers.
- The plastination process is extensive and takes months or longer to complete. 3D printed human anatomical models are available in a fraction of the time.
- Plastinated models, like human cadavers, are one of a kind and can only showcase one presentation of human anatomy.
Advanced 3D Printing Techniques for Superior Results
- Vibrant color offering with 10 million colors
- UV-curable inkjet printing
- High quality 3D printing that can create products that are delicate, extremely precise, and incredibly realistic
- To improve durability of fragile, thin, and delicate arteries, veins or vessels, a clear support material is printed in key areas. This makes the models robust so they can be handled by students easily.
