R_Bibb_Medical_Modelling_The_Application_of_Adv.pdf

Physical reproduction 75
5.10 SL model used for planning maxillofacial surgery.
Table 5.1 Advantages and disadvantages of stereolithography
Advantages Disadvantages
Well developed, reliable machines and High cost of machine and
software materials
Established sales, support and training High maintenance costs
High accuracy, good surface fi nish Resin handling requirements
Little material waste ‘Trapped volumes’ problematic
Medical standard material
Can be sterilised and selectively coloured
Transparent models
and 5.12 (see Fig. 5.11 and 5.12 in the colour section). These factors combined
with the inherent accuracy of stereolithography make it highly ap -
propriate for medical modelling. The advantages and disadvantages of
stereolithography are summarised in Table 5.1.