Rheumatology, Autoimmunity and Orthopedics

Organ forming and 3 D printing

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a manufacturing method in which objects are made by fusing or depositing materials. On other hand, a printable organ is an artificially constructed device designed for organ replacement, formed using 3D printing techniques. Nowadays orthopedists have access to a variety of diagnostic tests with arthrography, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, CT scans, ultrasound, nerve conduction study, MRI, and electromyography just to name a few. All of them widen doctors’ perception and help them better understand patient’s condition before starting treatment. Orthopedics gets many benefits from planning on 3D models. Some of the most typical use cases are scoliosis or kyphosis surgeries and quite often evaluation of craniosynostosis cases. Some severe bone fractures may be better assessed with use of 3D models. Development of metallic implants and custom-made prostheses is the most significant and most valued direction when applying the 3D printing in the field of orthopedics. This is determined by the materials, equipment, and manufacturing capabilities available for 3D printing. This technology undoubtedly boosts surgeons’ confidence as it gives them the opportunity to evaluate all aspects of patient’s anatomy without losing time to do this in OR. Neither standard models nor 2D images can replace 3D printing as the first do not represent the specific case in debate and the latter may hide important details, especially in the spatial relationship between structures.