Imagine being able to physically examine the surgical site from every perspective preoperatively. With a life-size physical model in hand, planning surgery of any kind is hugely facilitated. The dimensions of dental implants, orthopaedic implants or prostheses, and the sizing or adaptation of bone plates may be predetermined, saving theatre time. Surgery may often be carried out minimally invasively.
We can use various computer techniques to simulate surgery, mirror left-to-right in order to guide trauma or cancer surgery, and to produce cutting and drilling guides for dental, facial, and orthopaedic procedures.