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Three-Dimensional Printing in Orthopedics: from the Basics to Surgical Applications

  • Emerging Trends in Design for Musculoskeletal Medicine (S Goldchmit and M Queiroz, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a rapidly evolving field traditionally utilized in non-medical industries. Recently, the medical use of AM is expanding, especially in orthopedics. The goal of this article is presenting the principles of AM and its main applications in orthopedics.

Recent Findings

The main indications for AM in orthopedics are education, orthotics, surgical planning, surgical guides, and custom-made implants. Three-dimensional (3D) digital models can be obtained from tomographic scans using available free software. Then, it can be used to create a physical model, plan surgeries, or develop surgical guides which can aid the orthopedic surgeon during complex cases. Recent studies demonstrated the benefits of using printed models in educating patients and medical residents. Custom-made implants also have been evaluated with promising clinical outcomes.

Summary

Using 3D technology has become a reality in orthopedics. Surgeons should expect exponential growth of its applications in the upcoming years. It is paramount that orthopedists get familiar with this disruptive technology.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Rua Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos, 333 Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP, Brazil

    Leandro Ejnisman & Andre Ferrari de França Camargo

  2. Orthopedic Surgery Department, Hospital Sao Jose, Jaragua do Sul, SC, Brazil

    Bruno Gobbato

  3. Department of Production Engineering, Polytechnic School, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil

    Eduardo Zancul

Authors
  1. Leandro Ejnisman
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  2. Bruno Gobbato
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  3. Andre Ferrari de França Camargo
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  4. Eduardo Zancul
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Correspondence to Leandro Ejnisman.

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Ejnisman, L., Gobbato, B., de França Camargo, A.F. et al. Three-Dimensional Printing in Orthopedics: from the Basics to Surgical Applications. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med 14, 1–8 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-020-09691-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-020-09691-3

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