Breaking boundaries: Feasibility and flexibility of 3D printed polylactic acid composites in modern healthcare

Polylactic acid (PLA) composites have become evident in the medical field due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, low toxicity, superior mechanical strength and antimicrobial properties. The 3D printing technology has immensely uplifted flexibility in the production and development of these composites, as it is widely used in creating highly specialized medical devices and implants. The presented review focuses on reinforcements viz. carbon fibres, metal powders, antimicrobial agents, and bioactive ceramics used to prepare these PLA composites. In vivo and in vitro studies on these composites and how they affect cell growth and differentiation have also been mentioned. Various 3D printing techniques used for fabricating these composites have been discussed. The applications of these 3D-printed PLA composites in the medical field, especially in developing orthopaedic implants, tissue engineering, cardiovascular devices, drug delivery systems, and dental applications, are given the primary focus in the current review. The overall acceptability of these composites in the medical field has been explored. The paper concludes with a positive perspective on the further applications of 3D-printed PLA composites in the medical field.