From prosthetics to surgical guides, almost 13 per cent of 3D revenue comes from the medical industry. 3D printing service provides flexibility that allows medical professionals to create patient-centric devices at affordable process.
FREMONT, CA: In the medical industry, detailed scanning and imaging processes are vital factors. Laser scanning is utilized to take detailed images of a patient’s surface, and CT scanning and MRI imaging are used to obtain bones and tissue. Modern software can turn these images into models that can be used for 3D printing. Devices can be created quickly, cheaply, and effectively with the help of detailed images, matching the patient precisely as required.
Additive manufacturing is utilized to develop hearing aids, surgical implants, replacement limbs and detailed models of organs, bones, and blood cells. This technology has dramatically progressed the capabilities of the medical field.
Here are four ways of how 3D printing is beneficial for medical application:
Implants
Additive manufacturing can produce fine mesh structures at no extra cost. This characteristic is vital for surgical implants as the organic structure of the device decreases the risk of rejection after the surgery is completed. These customizable implants are generally manufactured with 3D metal printing which are strong, sterile and suited to the patient’s need.
Models
3D printing can be implemented to develop perfect scale models of patient-specific anatomy and structures. This enables doctors and nurses to evaluate a subject from different perspectives and try to find a solution to the medical problem. Additive manufacturing is an affordable way to develop anatomical models for medical students and experienced professionals.
Surgical guides
Dental and medical surgeries need extreme precision, and a 3D printed guide can help surgeons line up holes and incisions with a patient’s anatomy. With additive manufacturing, these guides can be quickly produced and with accurate specifications.
Prosthetics
Additive manufacturing has revolutionized the prosthetic industry, from cosmetic prosthetics to fully-functional replacement limbs. These devices can be tailored for each individual and produce for a fraction of the usual cost.
