A Review of 3D-Printing Applications in Anatomy Education: Focus on Bony Structures and the Orbit

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Msc. Medical Education and Educational Technology, Medical Sciences Education Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

2 Fellowship , Professor of Ophthalmology, Eye Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

3 Fellowship in Oculoplastic & Strabismus, Khatam Eye Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

4 Phd, Health Education, Department of Medical Education, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

5 Professor, Department of Radiology, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

6 Phd, Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, & Department of Medical Education, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

7 Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine and Public Health, Medical Sciences Education Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

Abstract

This review purposed to explore the applications of 3D printing in teaching bony structures, with a particular focus on the orbit. A comprehensive search was conducted in Scopus, ERIC, ScienceDirect, SAGE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ProQuest with no time restrictions, using relevant keywords. After screening 170 articles, the most relevant studies were selected and analyzed. The reviewed literature indicates that 3D printing serves as an effective tool in medical education by improving anatomical comprehension, providing accurate visualization of bony structures, and facilitating teaching processes. The findings were categorized into four main themes: key features of 3D printing technology, educational applications of bony models, orbit-specific 3D models and diversity of educational and clinical applications. 3D printing holds significant value in medical education by offering realistic and tangible models that enhance structural understanding and support more precise preoperative planning.

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Main Subjects

References

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Technology and Scholarship in Education
Volume 6, Issue 3 - Serial Number 22
September 2026
Pages 121-134

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History

  • Receive Date: 30 June 2025
  • Revise Date: 15 December 2025
  • Accept Date: 13 February 2026
  • First Publish Date: 15 February 2026
  • Publish Date: 23 September 2026

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