Setting Up 3D Printing Services for Orthopaedic Applications: A Step-by-Step Guide and an Overview of 3DBioSphere

Abstract

Introduction 3D printing has widespread applications in orthopaedics including creating biomodels, patient-specific instruments, implants, and developing bioprints. 3DGraphy or printing 3D models enable the surgeon to understand, plan, and simulate different procedures on it. Despite widespread applications in non-healthcare specialties, it has failed to gain traction in healthcare settings. This is perhaps due to perceived capital expenditure cost and the lack of knowledge and skill required to execute the process. Purpose This article is written with an aim to provide step-by-step instructions for setting up a cost-efficient 3D printing laboratory in an institution or standalone radiology centre. The article with the help of video modules will explain the key process of segmentation, especially the technique of edge detection and thresholding which are the heart of 3D printing. Conclusion This is likely to enable the practising orthopaedician and radiologist to set up a 3D printing unit in their departments or even standalone radiology centres at minimal startup costs. This will enable maximal utilisation of this technology that is likely to bring about a paradigm shift in planning, simulation, and execution of complex surgeries.

Meta-Analysis of 3D Printing Applications in Traumatic Fractures

“…Rapid development of 3D printing technology has led to its increasing application in orthopaedics (33)(34)(35)(36)(37)(38)(39)(40)(41)(42). Type and complexity of fractures vary from person to person.…”

Enhancing Hip Arthroplasty Outcomes: The Multifaceted Advantages, Limitations, and Future Directions of 3D Printing Technology

“…This may have to do with the fact that additional data supporting the need for 3D printing should be established. It has been suggested by Shah et al that when this additional data support is gathered, insurance companies can then create a dedicated Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code for 3D printing, thus allowing for a more widespread use of this technology [ 64 ]. As for the manpower, there is a necessity for skilled users, who can either be technicians or surgeons who would have to undergo extensive training in medical modeling software modalities, which adds to the cost of this process [ 27 , 32 , 65 ], especially since the very nature of medical 3D printing often requires customization, meaning skilled users must be able to convert clinical data into digital models tailored to each patient’s unique requirements.…”

Impact of 3D printing on Orthopedic Surgery in India: Has the Technology Really Arrived!

“…Shah et al [ 19 ] and Kabra et al [ 4 ] and various other research groups in the field have emphasized the cost implications linked to 3D printing. Tetsworth et al concluded that while the initial cost of 3D printing may be too high for surgeons in developing countries, as 3D printer prices decrease, the ability to create prototypes and patient-specific models will become more affordable [ 1 ].…”