3D Printing Process for Patient-Specific Models and Applications

Chawaphol Direkwatana; Nichapat  Rattanapan

doi:10.33165/rmj.48.02.e270830

Authors

Chawaphol Direkwatana Chakri Naruebodindra Medical Institute, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Samut Prakan, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0000-6901-8880
Nichapat Rattanapan Medical Innovations Development (MIND) Center, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33165/rmj.48.02.e270830

Keywords:

3D printing technology, Medical 3D printing, Patient-specific model, Additive manufacturing

Abstract

In the past decade, 3D printing has emerged as a game-changing technology in medicine, particularly in the creation of patient-specific models and applications. Patient-specific models are generated from medical imaging data (such as CT scans or MRI), allowing for precise replication of a patient’s anatomy. Modeling software helps visualize, analyze, and modify data, ensuring its accuracy and providing valuable insights for decision-making and problem-solving. This article explores the 3D printing processes that are used to create patient-specific models tailored to the unique anatomical and medical needs of individuals. The ability to produce highly accurate and customized models have improved surgical outcomes, reduced risks, and accelerated innovation. The applications include presurgical planning, prosthetics design, implant development, medical device advancement, and education for healthcare professionals. This article will also explore how the 3D printing process improves our understanding of the medical applications of various techniques such as material extrusion, vat polymerization, and powder bed fusion. 3D printing materials offer a variety of properties, including flexibility, rigidity, and cellular structures, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, despite the challenges of material limitations, cost, and ambiguous regulations. In the future, point-of-care in healthcare will rely on the potential of 3D printing to transform medical practice by providing personalized, patient-centered care through innovative applications of additive manufacturing technology.

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