3D Printing in Surgery and Medicine

Abstract

Translocation INTRODUCTION Three-dimensional (3D) printing involves the creation of a 3D product through combining and depositing materials (i.e. plastic, metals, and ceramics) in layers.1 Since the first patent was made by Charles Hull in 1984, advances in 3D printing technology have allowed it to be utilized in a variety of fields, including engineering and medicine.2 Specifically, 3D printing technology has been useful in refining surgical techniques. 3D-printed anatomical models, surgical implants, and prosthetic limbs have proven to be beneficial in daily medical practice. Organ resection, reconstruction surgeries, reparative procedures, and organ transplantations have also been improved through this technology.1,2,3 3D PRINTING IN SURGERY AND MEDICINE