What are some amazing applications of 3D printing in the medical field?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Cao Tiesheng, Director of 3D Printing Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University

The application of 3D printing technology in the medical field has moved from science fiction to reality, bringing many amazing breakthroughs.

First, 3D printing can be used to make personalized medical devices. For example, in the past, prosthetic limbs and prosthetic implants were usually made in standard sizes and may not be completely suitable for each patient. Now, doctors can use 3D printing technology to tailor prosthetic limbs or prosthetic implants for patients, so that they fit the patient's body perfectly, comfortable and powerful.

Secondly, 3D printing also has amazing applications in surgical auxiliary tools. Doctors can first use 3D printing technology to print out models of patients' organs to simulate surgery. This "surgical rehearsal" allows doctors to prepare for complex situations before surgery and improve the success rate of surgery. In addition, doctors can also print surgical guides designed specifically for patients to ensure more accurate cutting or implantation in actual operations, greatly reducing risks.

What is even more amazing is that 3D printing can also print living cells to create human tissues. This technology is called "bioprinting". Although we cannot print complete organs now, scientists have been able to print skin, cartilage, and even small pieces of liver tissue. These artificial tissues can be used to test new drugs or repair damaged organs in experiments, and are expected to ease the contradiction between supply and demand for organ transplants in the future.

Another exciting application is personalized medicine. 3D printing technology can create tablets designed specifically for individuals, precisely controlling the dosage and release time of each ingredient. This not only improves the efficacy of the drug, but also reduces side effects, which is particularly suitable for patients with multiple diseases who need to take medication for a long time.

Finally, 3D printing technology also has great potential in cosmetic medicine. Through 3D printing, doctors can customize facial implants for patients or make precise dental braces to make the effect of cosmetic surgery more natural.

In general, 3D printing technology is revolutionizing the medical industry. From personalized treatment to complex surgery to drug development, 3D printing is creating a new era of more precise and efficient medicine.