The Model
With the help of the National Institutes of Health's 3D Print Exchange Program, and the creative expertise of 3D Brooklyn, The Functional Inner Ear became a great tool for both clinician and patient education.
The original 3D printable model was created by NIH using Magnetic Resonance Imaging to map a patient's vestibular organ. This process created an exact replica of the organ which accurately depicted the correct canal angles in relation to each other and the utricle, as well as the changing canal diameters. We then worked with 3D Brooklyn to refine the model, increase the size to scale, and to learn about the new innovative technology that would help create an affordable educational product.
Use the model to educate your patients about BPPV and demonstrate the canalith repositioning maneuvers to patient. Practice the maneuvers as a clinician, and to spread the word about the vestibular therapy and the organ itself!
A Diagram
A Closer Look
Each model serves a unique purpose! Compare Medical Imaging & 3D Printing to Medical Illustrators & Sculptors
The Functional Inner Ear
The structure of this model was derived from the National Institutes of Health 3D Print Exchange Program, which combines new age technology and an actual patient's Magnetic Resonance Imaging scans to create a true anatomical structure. Rings placed on each canal represent the movement of displaced otoconia. This functional aspect of the model makes it easy to explain Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) to patients, as well as practice/think through canalith repositioning maneuvers.
A noticeable difference between other models and The Functional Inner Ear is the angle of the semicircular canals in relation to one another. and to the vestibular organ itself. Take note of how The Functional Inner Ear shows varying canal diameters and imperfect twists in the canals which may be important to consider when treating conditions like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).
