Synthetic and Natural Biomaterials in Veterinary Medicine and Ophthalmology: A Review of Clinical Cases and Experimental Studies

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in 3D printing technology within the field of bioengineering. This technology offers the ability to create devices with intricate macro- and micro-geometries, as well as specific models. It has particularly gained attention for its potential in personalized medicine, allowing for the production of organ or tissue models tailored to individual patient needs. Further, 3D printing has opened up possibilities to manufacture structures that can substitute, complement, or enhance damaged or dysfunctional organic parts. To apply 3D printing in the medical field, researchers have studied various materials known as biomaterials, each with distinct chemical and physical characteristics. These materials fall into two main categories: hard and soft materials. Each biomaterial needs to possess specific characteristics that are compatible with biological systems, ensuring long-term stability and biocompatibility. In this paper, we aim to review some of the materials used in the biomedical field, with a particular focus on those utilized in veterinary medicine and ophthalmology. We will discuss the significant findings from recent scientific research, focusing on the biocompatibility, structure, applicability, and in vitro and in vivo biological characteristics of two hard and four soft materials. Additionally, we will present the current state and prospects of veterinary ophthalmology.