InVesalius
InVesalius is an open-source program from Brazil that dentists and researchers use when they need quick 3D reconstructions from CT or CBCT scans. It doesn’t try to compete with high-end surgical planning software, but it does the basics very well: load a DICOM study, generate a 3D model, export it to STL, and you’re ready for CAD/CAM or printing.
Clinics usually install it on a side workstation to review scans or explain treatment plans to patients. Universities like it because it’s free and runs on most laptops, which makes it easy to train students without worrying about licenses. For IT admins, the attraction is obvious — it’s cross-platform, lightweight, and requires almost no maintenance apart from occasional updates.
Core Characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
| Platform | Windows, Linux, macOS |
| File formats | DICOM input; STL, OBJ, PLY export |
| Features | 3D reconstructions, segmentation, volume rendering, model export |
| Interoperability | Works with DICOM; exports mesh formats for CAD/CAM and 3D printing |
| Security | No role system; depends on OS security |
| Licensing | GPL (open-source) |
| Deployment | Standalone desktop app |
Installation Guide
Download – get the package for your OS from the official site.
Install – Windows installer, DMG for macOS, or package manager on Linux.
Load scans – import CT/CBCT data in DICOM format.
Run reconstruction – segment bone, teeth, or regions of interest.
Export – save the model as STL/OBJ for printing or CAD software.
How It’s Used
– A small dental clinic uses it for quick 3D previews of CBCT scans.
– In teaching hospitals, it’s part of the coursework so students can practice segmentation.
– Research labs often combine it with CAD/CAM tools to test new implant or prosthetic designs.
Deployment Notes
– Runs fine on mid-range desktops, but faster rendering needs a strong GPU.
– Exported meshes often need cleanup before 3D printing — usually done in MeshLab or similar tools.
– Updates are irregular; stable builds are safer for production use.
– Support is community-based, so fixes and guides mostly come from forums and mailing lists.
Limitations
– UI is basic and closer to a research tool than a polished clinical product.
– No built-in patient management or PACS integration.
– Fewer implantology features compared to commercial software.
– Volunteer-driven development slows down release cycles.
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Distinctive Strength | Best Fit |
| InVesalius | Free, quick 3D recon | Clinics and schools needing affordable 3D |
| 3D Slicer (Dental Ext.) | Advanced, modular, research-grade | Universities, research institutions |
| BlueSkyPlan Community | Implant planning focus | Practices testing surgical guides |
| ITK-SNAP | Segmentation-first | Research labs, surgical imaging teams |
