Introduction to Additive Manufacturing and Three-Dimensional Printing in Orthopaedics

Additive manufacturing involves the construction of devices via the layer-by-layer deposition of materials. Additive manufacturing, which also is referred to as three-dimensional printing, is different from traditional machining, which involves the subtraction of material from a workpiece. Although traditional machining methods have been used in the field of manufacturing for decades, a recent rise in the commercial use of additive manufacturing has occurred in the field of orthopaedic surgery. Orthopaedic surgeons should understand the pertinent history of three-dimensional printing with regard to the field of manufacturing technology and the manner in which recent advances in additive manufacturing have allowed for new product designs with musculoskeletal applications. In addition, it is helpful to be aware of the regulatory aspects of additive manufacturing to ensure the safe and effective use of orthopaedic surgical devices created via three-dimensional printing.