Research Stories
3D-printed models help surgeons remove cancer more precisely
| June 4, 2026
For surgeons treating head and neck cancers, precision is everything. Removing the entire tumor is critical, but so is preserving the delicate structures that allow patients to speak, chew and swallow.
Researchers at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) are advancing a new approach that helps surgeons do both: custom 3D-printed models created from each patient’s medical imaging.
“This model is especially critical in cancers that have invaded bone, because tumor boundaries are often less visible or palpable. Our 3D models are built based on the patient’s actual tumor imaging, so it gives us a much better visual map at the patient’s bedside for removing the cancer as completely as possible while also sparing important structures and tissue to maintain function after surgery,” says Kyle VanKoevering, MD, an otolaryngologist (head and neck surgeon) at the OSUCCC – James and medical director of the M4 Lab (Medical Modeling, Materials and Manufacturing Lab) within the Ohio State College of Engineering.
Using CT and MRI scans, Dr. VanKoevering and his team generate highly detailed, patient-specific models of the affected anatomy, including the tumor and surrounding bone. Surgeons can hold and study the model before and during surgery, gaining a clearer understanding of exactly where the cancer sits within complex structures like the jaw.
This work is an example of how cancer engineering touches the OSUCCC – James mission, whether in basic science discovery or in outreach to communities.
For tumors that invade bones, boundaries can be difficult to see or feel during surgery. Having a physical model allows surgeons to visualize the tumor’s location more clearly and plan their approach with greater confidence.
The study was supported by Pelotonia funding and led by researchers including medical student Matthew Marquardt, a Pelotonia Scholar. The findings highlight how innovative technology — and the generosity of Pelotonia Riders and donors — can translate to better cancer care and improved quality of life for patients.
“Long term, our hope is that this work will enable other surgeons to use this technology across the country to help improve people’s lives and improve cancer outcomes,” said Matthew Marquardt, study corresponding author and third-year medical student.
Read the full story on the OSUCCC – James news page here.
This article appeared in the Spring 2026 issue of the Pelotonia Insider, which can be found here.
Key study highlights
Researchers compared the surgical outcomes of 68 patients with bone-invading head and neck cancers treated at the OSUCCC – James.
The study population was predominantly male, and nearly all were active or previous tobacco users (94.6%).
Thirty-seven patients received in-house 3D models for intraoperative use while the other 31 did not.
92% of head and neck surgeries that used a 3D-model in the operating room had complete tumor removal, compared to 74% without access to this visual guide.
The study shows that using custom 3D-printed models tailored to each patient can help surgeons remove oral cancers more accurately.
Improved precision means that more of the cancer is removed while protecting healthy tissue, which may reduce the need for additional treatments after surgery and lead to better overall outcomes.
