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Updated: May 14, 2026
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3D Printing of Biomolecular Models for Research and Pedagogy
Published on: March 13, 2017
3D printing: making things at the library.
1Mayo Clinic Health System-Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701, USA. Hoy.Matt@mayo.edu
Medical Reference Services Quarterly
|February 12, 2013
Summary
3D printing technology is rapidly advancing, with significant potential to revolutionize medicine by enabling the creation of body parts and organs. This accessible technology is becoming increasingly available in libraries.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Medical Technology
- Additive Manufacturing
Background:
- 3D printing technology enables the creation of physical objects from digital designs.
- Current applications include models, parts, and toys.
- Emerging medical uses involve printing tissues like bone and skin, and even complete organs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the transformative potential of 3D printing in medicine.
- To inform medical librarians about this rapidly evolving technology.
- To underscore the impact of 3D printing on future medical practices.
Main Methods:
- Review of current 3D printing applications.
- Analysis of emerging medical uses and their developmental status.
- Assessment of cost trends and accessibility for institutions like libraries.
Main Results:
- Medical applications of 3D printing, while developing, show immense future potential.
- Decreasing hardware costs make 3D printers affordable for libraries.
- Familiarity with 3D printing is crucial for medical librarians.
Conclusions:
- 3D printing is poised to significantly alter medical practice within the next decade.
- Libraries can leverage affordable 3D printing technology to serve patrons.
- Medical librarians should prepare for the integration of 3D printing into healthcare.
