Researchers from Indiana have developed a method for using a 3D printer to produce phantoms for calibrating and testing medical imaging equipment.
Most medical imaging phantoms are simple injection molds that have a limited geometry. In contrast, the group from Purdue University created complex 3D-printed phantoms that can take a wide variety of shapes and have optical properties matching those of real tissue.
These more realistic phantoms provide a better way to ensure that clinicians can calibrate imaging devices properly, said Brian Bentz, CEO of engineering company Starfish Engineering, in a release from the university.
3D-printed medical imaging phantoms in the shape of mice. Image courtesy of Purdue University.
