3D Systems Introduces New Simbionix™ Virtual Reality Surgical Simulation Training Module

ROCK HILL, South Carolina, September 15, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --

• New Simbionix training module launched for the practice of transvaginal ultrasound exams
• Demonstrations of the new module can be seen at the upcoming International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology

3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) announced today the addition of a new Simbionix™ ultrasound training module for the practice of transvaginal ultrasound exams (GYN TVS) at the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) exhibition in Barcelona, Spain.

Transvaginal ultrasound is a commonly used exam in many Obstetrics and Gynecology practices, and as such, the ability to both perform and interpret ultrasounds has always been an important part of the curriculum in clinical training programs. Unlike ultrasound exams that are performed externally, practicing pelvic ultrasound poses more of a challenge to both learners and educators.

The company also plans to add its Bespoke Modeling™, a cloud-based, easy-to-use, affordable service that allows medical professionals to quickly create, view, share and 3D print full-color 3D anatomical models directly from DICOM data. When used with Simbionix simulators, Bespoke Modeling gives medical professionals the power to diagnose and communicate more effectively, simplify medical imaging and improve medical learning and training. Bespoke Modeling makes it easy to view patient-specific 3D data, bookmark views, add annotations, explore specific anatomical structures and then order color 3D cloud-printed models or print on-site.

The U/S Mentor simulator provides a true-to-life training environment in which physicians and sonographers of different experience levels may practice ultrasound procedures. The new GYN TVS training module was developed based on the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) standards and guidelines for the accreditation of ultrasound practices. Training is performed on a dedicated mannequin combined with simulated anatomies and pathologies. Virtual patient cases include normal anatomical variations, early IUP, ectopic pregnancy, fibroids, ovarian malignancies, hydrosalpynx and more. The comprehensive training incorporates didactics, real time guidance and captured metrics for objective assessment.

Pelvic ultrasound simulation training using the U/S Mentor simulator provides a safe and low stress environment in comparison with the traditional method of training on live patients.  

"The U/S Mentor has been very well accepted, with customers especially impressed with the realistic imaging and training options that it offers," said Gary Zamler, Vice President and General Manager, Simbionix Products, 3DS. "Our well-established advanced ultrasound simulation technology, which has been developed over the last 10 years, allows us to rapidly enhance the product and provide a variety of unique training packages in correspondence with our client's needs."

The module will be available for hands-on experience at Simbionix booth #33 at the ISUOG exhibition in Barcelona, Spain, September 14-17.

3D Systems offers a full array of Simbionix medical training simulators, PROcedure Rehearsal Studio™ for case rehearsal and planning and MentorLearn™ Simulator Training Management to advance clinical performance and optimize procedural outcomes through education and collaboration. More information on Simbionix products can be found on http://www.simbionix.com.

Learn more about 3DS' commitment to manufacturing the future today at http://www.3dsystems.com.

About 3D Systems  

3D Systems is pioneering 3D printing for everyone. 3DS provides the most advanced and comprehensive 3D design-to-manufacturing solutions including 3D printers, print materials and cloud sourced custom parts. Its powerful digital thread empowers professionals and consumers everywhere to bring their ideas to life in material choices including plastics, metals, ceramics and edibles. 3DS' leading healthcare solutions include integrated 3D planning and printing for personalized surgery and patient specific medical and dental devices. Its democratized 3D design and inspection products embody the latest perceptual, capture and touch technology. Its products and services replace and complement traditional methods with improved results and reduced time to outcomes. These solutions are used to rapidly design, create, communicate, plan, guide, prototype or produce functional parts, devices and assemblies, empowering customers to manufacture the future.

Leadership Through Innovation and Technology 

• 3DS invented 3D printing with its Stereolithography (SLA) printer and was the first to commercialize it in 1989.
• 3DS invented Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) printing and was the first to commercialize it in 1992.
• 3DS invented the Color-Jet-Printing (CJP) class of 3D printers and was the first to commercialize 3D powder-based systems in 1994.
• 3DS invented Multi-Jet-Printing (MJP) printers and was the first to commercialize it in 1996.
• 3DS Medical Modeling pioneered virtual surgical planning (VSP) and its services are world-leading, helping many thousands of patients on an annual basis.

Today its comprehensive range of 3D printers is the industry's benchmark for production-grade manufacturing in aerospace, automotive, patient specific medical device and a variety of consumer, electronic and fashion accessories.

More information on the company is available at http://www.3DSystems.com.

Investor Contact:
Stacey Witten
Stacey.Witten@3dsystems.com

Media Contact:
Alyssa Hoyt
Press@3dsystems.com