3D Printing Technology in Pediatric Orthopedics: a Primer for the Clinician

This article reviews the basics of 3D printing and provides an overview of current and future applications of this emerging technology in pediatric orthopedic surgery.

Both preoperative and intraoperative utilization of 3D printing technology have enhanced clinical care. Potential benefits include more accurate surgical planning, shortening of a surgical learning curve, decrease in intraoperative blood loss, less operative time, and fluoroscopic time. Furthermore, patient-specific instrumentation can be used to improve the safety and accuracy of surgical care. Patient-physician communication can also benefit from 3D printing technology. 3D printing is rapidly advancing in the field of pediatric orthopedic surgery. It has the potential to increase the value of several pediatric orthopedic procedures by enhancing safety and accuracy while saving time. Future efforts in cost reduction strategies, making patient-specific implants including biologic substitutes and scaffolds, will further increase the relevance of 3D technology in the field of pediatric orthopedic surgery.