Application of 3-dimensional printing implants for bone tumors

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Oncology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Three-dimensional (3D) additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is increasingly adopted across medical disciplines.
• Orthopedic oncology is a primary beneficiary, leveraging 3D printing for surgical planning, custom instrument creation, and implant fabrication.
• Current applications focus on 3D-printed metal implants, particularly those made from titanium alloy powder, for bone reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the practical applications of 3D printing in orthopedic oncology.
• To highlight the transformative impact of 3D-printed implants on bone reconstruction.
• To discuss future possibilities in biologic bone reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and case studies on 3D printing in orthopedic oncology.
• Analysis of the benefits and limitations of 3D-printed metal implants.
• Exploration of emerging bioprinting technologies for bone regeneration.

Main Results:

• 3D-printed metal implants offer patient-specific solutions, personalizing bone reconstruction.
• These implants serve as effective alternatives to conventional tumor prostheses and bone grafts.
• Customization extends to all body areas, improving treatment outcomes.
• Bioprinting technology for bone reconstruction is still in experimental stages but shows promise.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing has revolutionized orthopedic oncology by enabling personalized bone reconstruction with custom metal implants.
• 3D-printed implants provide superior alternatives to traditional methods, enhancing patient care.
• Future research directions include the development of biodegradable and bioprinted materials for biologic bone reconstruction.