As a 3D design enthusiast and tech innovator, I’ve always been fascinated by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with 3D modeling and printing. So when I had the chance to take a deep dive into my own brain using MRI technology, I knew I had to turn that into a fully-realized 3D model. This journey combined cutting-edge medical imaging with my passion for design—and now, you can even hold a 3D model of my brain in your hands!
In this post, I’ll walk you through how I used Slicer 5.6.1 and the Swiss Skull Stripper plugin to convert a T3 MRI scan into a precise 3D model of my brain.
Step 1: Getting the MRI Scan
The first step was undergoing a T3 MRI scan, which provides a high-resolution image of my brain. T3 MRI scans are known for their superior image quality, which is critical for producing an accurate 3D model. Once the scan was completed, I received a series of DICOM files that contained the layered images of my brain.
Step 2: Loading the Data into Slicer 5.6.1
To begin converting the scan data into a 3D model, I used Slicer 5.6.1, a powerful open-source software package for medical image analysis. Slicer allows you to work with DICOM files and provides a robust toolkit for extracting 3D models from them. After importing my MRI data, I carefully inspected each layer to make sure the images were clean and ready for the next steps.
Step 3: Using the Swiss Skull Stripper Plugin
One of the challenges of working with MRI data is isolating the brain from surrounding tissues, such as the skull and skin. This is where the Swiss Skull Stripper plugin comes in handy. The plugin simplifies the process of removing the skull from the scan, leaving only the brain for 3D modeling. With just a few tweaks to the settings, I was able to automatically segment my brain from the rest of the scan.
Step 4: Creating the 3D Model
Once the brain was isolated, I used Slicer’s built-in 3D rendering tools to generate a high-quality 3D model. This step involved smoothing the data, adjusting the contours, and optimizing the mesh to ensure the final model was clean and printable. After some refinement, I exported the model in multiple formats, including STL, OBJ, and FBX, to make it compatible with a wide variety of 3D printing software.
Step 5: Sharing My Brain with the World
After completing the model, I wanted to share it with other 3D printing enthusiasts and medical professionals. That’s why I’ve made the 3D print file available for download on Cults3D for just $0.95. Now, anyone can 3D print an exact replica of my brain, whether for educational purposes or as a unique art piece.
You can find the 3D model here:
Real Human Brain 3D Model – T3 MRI Scan of ConsultingJoe’s Brain on Cults3D
Why This Matters
This project is more than just a novelty—it’s an example of how technology is making it easier for us to explore, understand, and interact with complex medical data in entirely new ways. Whether you’re a student, educator, or just curious about the human brain, this 3D model offers a tangible way to explore one of the most complex organs in the body.
Final Thoughts
Using MRI technology and open-source tools like Slicer 5.6.1 is an exciting way to bridge the gap between science and 3D printing. I hope that by sharing my process, others can be inspired to explore their own creative projects and push the limits of what’s possible in the world of 3D modeling.