3D-Printed Microfluidics Potential in Combating Future and Current Pandemics (COVID-19).
Heba A Eassa1, Nada A Helal2, Ahmed M Amer3
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy & Physician Assistant Studies, University of Saint Joseph, Hartford, CT 06103, USA.
Recent Advances in Drug Delivery and Formulation
|July 27, 2022
Summary
3D printing and microfluidics offer rapid, low-cost solutions for personal protective equipment (PPE) and diagnostic supplies during pandemics like COVID-19. Ensuring safety and regulatory compliance is crucial for widespread adoption.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Technology
- Public Health
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic caused global lockdowns and severe medical supply shortages.
- Emerging technologies like 3D printing and microfluidics show potential to address these challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of 3D printing and microfluidics in accelerating COVID-19 diagnosis and monitoring.
- To assess their role in fulfilling shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical equipment.
Main Methods:
- Review of applications of 3D printing and microfluidics in providing PPE, supportive care, and diagnostic supplies.
- Analysis of cost-effectiveness and regulatory considerations for these technologies.
Main Results:
- 3D printing offers reusable and cost-effective solutions for PPE (masks, respirators, face shields) and medical equipment.
- Microfluidics can accelerate disease diagnosis and monitoring through lab-on-chip devices and sampling swabs.
Conclusions:
- 3D printing and microfluidics can significantly mitigate shortages during health crises.
- Standardization, safety, sterility, and regulatory assessment are essential for successful implementation.
