Three-dimensional printing in orthopedics − what an orthopedic surgeon should know

Background In complex situations, regular on-shelf orthopedic implants are not suitable or sufficient to ensure the expected biomechanical or biological function, and customized implants could theoretically offer a solution. Preoperative planning, procedure rehearsal, patient teaching, and three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting are other uses of the fast-spreading 3D printing technology. Aim This review deals with the status and future uses of 3D printing and its various applications in orthopedic surgery. In the past decades, enormous technological progress in the field of radiological data acquisition, processing, and 3D printing technologies led to an explosive advancement of this promising industry. Materials and methods A literature review of the recent and relevant publications with a special focus on the various orthopedic applications of 3D printing technology was done. Conclusion 3D printing offers already a valid yet still an expensive solution in certain orthopedic indications. Soon, orthopedic surgeons will be able to use this emerging technology more frequently as more and more companies offer cheaper rapid prototyping manufacturing solutions. Nevertheless, the technology still needs improvement, and many issues such as accuracy, long-term survivorship, and legal liability for the customized implants are still not fully solved.