An overview on 3D printing for abdominal surgery.

Area of Science:

• Medical Technology
• Surgical Innovation
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Three-dimensional (3D) printing enables the creation of patient-specific anatomical models from medical imaging.
• These physical models aid in understanding complex anatomy, improving patient communication, and enhancing medical education for students and residents.
• The application of 3D printing is rapidly expanding across various medical fields, including general surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review available 3D printing technologies.
• To systematically analyze medical literature on 3D printing applications in abdominal surgery.
• To report on the experience of Italy's first clinical 3D printing laboratory.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of 3D printing in abdominal surgery.
• Analysis of publication trends and focus areas.
• Inclusion of case study data from a clinical 3D printing laboratory.

Main Results:

• A tenfold increase in publications over the past decade indicates growing interest in 3D printing for medical applications.
• Approximately 70% of studies focus on kidney and liver models, primarily for pre-interventional planning and education.
• Material jetting and material extrusion are the most frequently utilized 3D printing technologies, with most studies reporting on fewer than ten clinical cases.

Conclusions:

• The use of 3D printing in abdominal surgery is emerging, representing a nascent but promising technology.
• The potential benefits for surgical training, research, and patient care are significant.
• Future developments may include dedicated hospital facilities to further integrate 3D printing into surgical practice.