Review
3D planning and printing in healthcare involve converting medical imaging data, such as CT or MRI scans, into three-dimensional models that can be visualized on a computer, XR, or 3D printed. These models serve a variety of purposes, from pre-surgical planning and education to the production of patient-specific implants and devices.
The use of 3D planning allows clinicians to analyze complex anatomies, simulate procedures, and even rehearse surgeries using patient-specific 3D anatomical models. Further it allows the 3D printing of patient specific intraoperative instruments and personalized devices. The use of these technologies has been shown to reduce surgery times, improve precision, and enhance patient outcomes.
From congenital heart defects to oncology and orthopedics, 3D planning and printing are reshaping how care is delivered, bringing precision medicine closer to patients than ever before.
Since its launch in 2018, the 3D Planning and Printing in Hospitals Forum has been a vital meeting point for healthcare professionals who are transforming patient care through 3D technology. From surgeons and radiologists to clinical engineers, the Forum brings together the most innovative minds in hospital-based 3D planning and printing to share ideas, showcase clinical breakthroughs, and explore new opportunities for collaboration.
This year’s 2025 edition, held in the historic Irish College in Leuven, Belgium, was no exception. With 140 attendees from across Europe and beyond, the Forum was packed with inspiring presentations, hands-on workshops, and open discussions about how 3D technology is making personalized medicine the new standard in healthcare.
From groundbreaking case studies to actionable strategies for improving workflows, the forum showcased the latest innovations in 3D technology and its growing impact across multiple medical specialties. Here are the standout moments and trends from this year’s event.
- Expanding Applications Across Specialties
The Forum highlighted how 3D planning and printing is now making its mark in a wide range of medical fields. While it has long been used in cranio-maxillofacial and orthopedic surgeries, its applications are expanding into pediatric cardiology,oncology, urology, neurovascular, and more.
Dr. David Hoganson from Boston Children’s Hospital delivered the keynote address, describing 3D modeling as a “game changer.” He highlighted how digital models eliminate the need for surgeons to mentally convert 2D imaging into 3D visualizations, reducing errors and improving decision-making. His team now uses digital 3D models in more than half of their surgeries, spanning routine and complex cases alike.
In adult cardiology, Dr. Abdel Hakim Moustafa from the Hospital de la Santa Creu showed how patient-specific heart models help clinicians plan interventions for congenital heart defects, reduce ICU stays, and improve outcomes.
Dr. Davide Curione from Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital shared how 3D models were critical in planning the separation of conjoined twins. By providing a detailed view of shared organs and vasculature, the models allowed surgeons to optimize their approach, reducing operating time by 30% and ensuring a successful outcome.
In oncology, Maarten van Alphen from the Netherlands Cancer Institute demonstrated how 3D-printed surgical guides improve the accuracy