Printing the Future-Updates in 3D Printing for Surgical Applications

Area of Science:

• Medical Technology
• Surgical Innovation
• Additive Manufacturing

Background:

• Three-dimensional (3D) printing utilizes additive technology to create 3D objects layer by layer.
• The medical industry is rapidly adopting 3D printing across various applications.
• Clinicians face confusion regarding different 3D printing modalities and their applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present current technological possibilities of 3D printing in surgery.
• To clarify differences between various 3D printing modalities.
• To highlight applications from preoperative planning models to patient-specific implants (PSI).

Main Methods:

• Classification of 3D printing technologies based on material: solid, liquid, and powder.
• Description of main printing methods within each modality.
• Presentation of workflows for 3D printing surgical guides and PSI, including clinical examples.

Main Results:

• 3D printed models enhance surgical planning and instrument preadaptation, reducing operation time and increasing precision.
• 3D printed patient-specific implants (PSI) enable accurate anatomical reconstruction and functional restoration.
• The application of PSI is expanding, promising future innovative treatment modalities.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing significantly advances surgical planning and execution.
• Patient-specific implants (PSI) offer substantial benefits for anatomical restoration and function.
• Continued innovation in 3D printing will drive future advancements in surgical treatments.