Imaging Factors Impacting on Accuracy and Radiation Dose in 3D Printing.

Objectives: To compare reconstructed area and surface roughness of 3D models acquired using nine image acquisition protocols. Radiation dose was also compared among acquisition protocols.

Methods: A dry craniofacial specimen was scanned using three CT devices (a cone beam CT, a 16-channel fan beam CT, and a 64-channel fan beam CT), with three different acquisition protocols each. Nine 3D models were manufactured using polylactic acid. Surface roughness and reconstructed area were determined for each 3D model. The radiation dose during acquisitions was measured using lithium crystals. ANOVA was used to compare the data among the 3D models. Linear function optimization techniques based on stochastic variables were applied to identify the most suitable protocol for use.

Results: For surface roughness, statistically significant differences were observed among all 3D models and the specimen. For reconstructed area, CBCT and one CT-16 channel protocols originated 3D models statistically significant different from the specimen. Higher radiation doses were observed with fan beam CT acquisitions.

Conclusions: All three CT devices were suitable for 3D printing when used at full resolution. The highest reconstruct area vs. radiation dose ratio was found for 64-channel CT devices.