The Use of 3D-Printed Prostheses in Reconstructive Surgery With Implications in Plastic Surgery and Radiology: A...

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is revolutionizing medical prosthetics by providing custom-fitted designs and enhanced functionality for patients suffering from severe trauma that requires amputation or severe restoration measures. In fields such as plastic surgery and radiology, 3D-printed prosthetics enable physicians to empower patients with solutions that align closely with individual anatomical differences for increased restored functionality and form-fitting aesthetics, improving patients' quality of life and restoring their ability to perform activities of daily living. This narrative review explores the clinical applications, patient benefits, and limitations of the use of 3D-printed prostheses in the field of reconstructive medicine. A comprehensive literature review search was conducted utilizing PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on studies that highlighted the usage of 3D-printed medical prosthetic devices, particularly in the fields of plastic and reconstructive surgery and radiology. 3D-printed prosthetics in plastic surgery allow for personalized craniofacial implants and functional limb devices that come closer to restoring functionality as opposed to stationary devices used primarily for aesthetic restoration. Radiology benefits from 3D models that enhance preoperative planning in conjunction with reconstructive surgery colleagues and patient education. However, limitations remain concerning material biocompatibility, quality production standardization, and overall regulatory hurdles. 3D-printed prosthetic devices give reconstructive medicine a promising future, using highly advanced technology in a cost-effective setting to deliver hyper-specific care to patients. The interplay among plastic surgeons, radiologists, and other involved specialties is needed to push this motive forward to spread this treatment option for patients far and wide.