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IPEM topical report: guidance on 3D printing in radiotherapy
Conor K McGarry1,2, Anna Tonino Baldion3, James Burnley4
1The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 1NN, United Kingdom.
Physics in Medicine and Biology
|January 2, 2025
Summary
3D printing is increasingly used in radiotherapy for personalized devices and custom phantoms. This review offers guidance for establishing 3D printing services, addressing barriers like lack of direction in radiotherapy departments.
Area of Science:
- Medical Physics
- Radiotherapy Technology
- Additive Manufacturing
Background:
- Commercial 3D printers are increasingly adopted in radiotherapy.
- Applications include phantoms, brachytherapy applicators, bolus, compensators, and immobilization devices.
- 3D printing offers rapid production of patient-specific and custom phantom solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current radiotherapy applications of 3D printing.
- To provide guidance for establishing 3D printing services in radiotherapy departments.
Main Methods:
- Topical review of additive manufacturing in radiotherapy.
- Identification of key areas for service implementation.
Main Results:
- 3D printing enables personalized radiotherapy components and custom phantoms.
- Guidance is needed for procurement, commissioning, material selection, quality assurance, and team training.
Conclusions:
- Establishing a 3D printing service requires a structured approach.
- Addressing guidance gaps will facilitate wider adoption of 3D printing in radiotherapy.
