3D Lab

The 3D Lab focuses on a broad range of clinical and research activities related to airway. Main projects relate to:

developing workflows for image quantification and shape analyses of trachea, larynx, and skull,
using multi-material 3D printing and mechanical testing of biological tissues to optimize surgical training,
creating novel reconstruction methods to quantify airway narrowing from endoscopy, and
applying computational flow dynamics to better understand how these morphometric features affect respiration

The lab also quantifies imaging biomarkers across a broad range of clinical conditions with the aim of improving diagnoses, following progression with greater sensitivity and evaluating biomarker responses to treatment. Examples include projects focused on craniofacial conditions, vascular anomalies, epilepsy, brain tumor therapy using engineered T-cells and muscular dystrophy. With a multidisciplinary team specializing in engineering, software development, 3D printing and surgical robot use, the lab strives to apply emerging technologies to broadly-enhance Seattle Children’s translational goals.

How 3D Printing is Advancing Pediatric Surgical Care in the Pacific Northwest

In the Pacific Northwest, Seattle Children’s leads the way in developing these cutting-edge pediatric patient models — accelerating innovation in surgical planning and contributing to life-changing research.

Explore Our Research

Oral Airway Plate

Seattle Children’s uses 3D-printed oral airway plates and custom tracheostomy tubes to improve breathing and growth in kids with craniofacial conditions like Robin syndrome.

3D Printing and Surgical Simulation

Seattle Children’s 3D Lab advances airway surgery training with multi-material models, airflow simulations and endoscopy trainers using digital twins, gamification and real-time feedback to enhance surgeon skill and learning.

Endoscopy Reconstruction

Accurate quantification of airway features is essential for accurate diagnosis and management over time. The main method used for airway visualization is endoscopy, which can provide qualitative data for diagnostic decision-making, but does not allow generation of 3D quantitative surfaces like computed tomography (CT).

Imaging Quantification

Seattle Children’s team uses advanced imaging, AI, and machine learning to track disease and treatment — from tracheomalacia and cleft palate to epilepsy, muscular dystrophy and brain tumor immunotherapy.

Meet Our Team

Collaborate With Us

Explore partnership opportunities and connect with our team.

Support Our Research

Help fund discoveries that improve children's health and save lives. To donate to our lab, select "Other Area of Support" under "Direct my donation to" and type in "3D Printing Program Fund."