Role of 3D printing in forensic anthropology: A review

ABSTRACT Introduction: Three-dimensional (3D) printing has become an essential part of forensic anthropology. Severely fractured and damaged bones can be recreated from computed tomography/laser scans as accurate models. These recreated models can be used by forensic anthropologist for studying the complexity of skeletal details, teaching, and in legal cases. Methods: We reviewed studies published between 2010 and 2024 by searching PubMed, Science Direct, and major forensic science journals, mainly focusing on recent research. Only studies related to 3D printing or scanning of human skeletal remains for reconstruction, trauma interpretation, identification, or courtroom use were included. Imaging methods, printing accuracy, forensic value, ethical considerations, and potential sources of bias were considered when screening and assessing the eligible studies. Results: Most of the studies reported that printed skeletal models had