Authors (including presenting author) :
Lau HYA(1), Li MLM(2), Wong KC(2)
Affiliation :
(1) 3D Printing Office, NTEC, (2) Orthopaedic & Traumatology, Prince of Wales Hospital
Keyword 1: :
3D Medical Modeling
Keyword 2: :
Digital Twin
Keyword 3: :
Visualization
Keyword 4: :
Virtual Library
Keyword 6: :
Advanced Technology
Introduction :
In recent years, 3D printing and medical modeling have become pivotal in managing complex surgical cases within the Hospital Authority. However, these high-value digital assets are often used as one-off solutions for individual patients. This project proposes a paradigm shift: leveraging a repository of over 700 completed complex cases to create a centralized, multi-specialty 3D Pathological Anatomy Library. By recycling existing data, we establish a sustainable, cost-neutral “Digital Twin” archive that enhances surgical precision and learning efficacy.
Objectives :
The objective of this project is to develop a comprehensive virtual repository of pathological anatomies by systematically curating and indexing retrospective 3D modeling data to support advanced training and educational applications.
Methodology :
The repository utilizes high-quality 3D medical models previously developed by the 3D Printing Office, covering Orthopaedics, Structural Cardiac Intervention, Otolaryngology, Radiation Oncology, Plastic Surgery, Oral Maxillofacial, and Cardiothoracic disciplines. A systematic indexing framework categorizes cases by specialty, pathology type, anatomical variation, and surgical complexity. To maximize accessibility and collaboration, a multi-platform visualization ecosystem was implemented: • Web-based 3D Viewers: Universal access for desk-side and mobile review with “2.5D” visualization. • Autostereoscopic Displays: Enabling collaborative sessions where multiple clinicians can visualize depth and spatial relationships without enclosed headsets. • Mixed Reality Devices: Providing immersive environments for hands-on virtual surgical planning and rehearsals.
Result & Outcome :
Drawing from over 700 completed cases, the library offers an unparalleled cross-sectional view of rare and complex pathologies. For senior clinicians, it serves as a Decision Support System, enabling comparison of current patient morphologies with similar past cases to refine surgical strategies. For junior staff and trainees, it functions as a Virtual Clinical Atlas, allowing exploration of rare pathologies that might otherwise be encountered only once during residency — shifting the learning curve from theoretical observation to interactive spatial understanding. This initiative demonstrates a sustainable model for the Smart Hospital era. By transforming dormant case data into a permanent digital asset, we have created a high-impact resource for surgical planning and education without requiring additional segmentation man-hours. Future development will integrate AI-driven search and advanced 3D rendering, ensuring the collective experience of 700+ surgeries remains instantly accessible — ultimately improving patient safety and surgical outcomes.
