IU Health announces FDA‑cleared 3D Print Studio at 16 Tech

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana University Health today celebrated the official launch of its enhanced 3D Print Studio, located within the 16 Tech Innovation District, with a ceremonial ribbon cutting. The state‑of‑the‑art studio enables IU Health clinical teams to create patient‑specific anatomical models that support diagnostic accuracy and enhance pre‑surgical planning.

The 3D Print Studio is among the first hospital‑based, FDA‑cleared 3D printing programs in the United States, marking a major milestone in IU Health’s commitment to innovation and personalized care. Developed with Ricoh 3D for Healthcare, LLC and in close collaboration with IU Health physicians, the studio’s workflows and capabilities were shaped by direct clinical feedback to ensure the technology meets the evolving needs of surgical teams and specialists.

“Being able to place a 3D‑printed, patient‑specific model in a parent's hands changes the conversation,” said Jeremy Herrmann, MD. “Families gain a deeper understanding of their child's diagnosis and treatment when they can see and physically interact with the anatomy.”

Transforming care through precision 3D modeling

The new studio leverages advanced 3D printing technology to produce highly accurate anatomical models that support a wide range of clinical applications. Benefits include:

• Reduced operating times: Surgeons using 3D‑printed models have seen an average 60‑minute reduction in operation time — often resulting in less anesthesia, reduced blood loss and improved patient outcomes.
• Redefined surgical approaches: Models allow surgeons to determine exact device sizing, analyze angles and measurements, and prepare meshes and tools before entering the operating room.
• Enhanced education and communication: 3D‑printed models provide cadaver‑free training opportunities and help clinicians communicate more clearly with patients and families during informed‑consent discussions.
• Improved diagnostic support: Detailed models help clinicians better evaluate complex conditions and plan more informed, precise approaches to care.
• FDA‑cleared accuracy: The studio meets rigorous regulatory and legal compliance standards enabled by Ricoh’s managed services platform and FDA ‑cleared patient-specific anatomic models and select radiotherapy and surgical applications.

A milestone for innovation at IU Health

Today’s announcement marks a significant step forward in IU Health’s mission to advance patient‑centered innovation. By integrating FDA‑cleared 3D printing directly into the clinical environment, IU Health is expanding access to tools that improve surgical planning, enhance training and elevate the patient experience.