The Role of 3D Modelling and Printing in Orthopaedic Tissue Engineering: A Review of the Current Literature

Abstract

Orthopaedic surgery lends itself well to advances in technology. An area of interest and ongoing research is that of the production of scaffolds for use in trauma and elective surgery. 3D printing provides unprecedented accuracy in terms of micro- and macro-structure and geometry for scaffold production. It can also be utilised to construct scaffolds of a variety of different materials and more recently has allowed for the construction of bio-implants which recapitulate bone and cartilage tissue. This review seeks to look at the various methods of 3DP, the materials used, elements of functionality and design, as well as modifications to increase the biomechanics and bioactivity of 3DP scaffolds.

Fabrication of Scaffolds for Bone-Tissue Regeneration

“…The huge advantage of 3D printing is that it does not require any physical masks or molds and it can transfer microscale and nanoscale into 3D structures relatively cheaply, flexibly and with high efficiency. All models are bespoke and very specific [103]. 3D bioprinting provides bio ink comprising well-structured biomaterials and/or living cells [100].…”

The Interactive Use of Multi‐Dimensional Modeling and 3D Printing in Preplanning of Type A Aortic Dissection

“…Using life‐sized replicas and performing simulations of particular procedures using actual equipment could theoretically increase efficiency and safety. This technology has already been used in a broad range of scenarios across the board of surgical specialties . We now report using this technology in TAAD.…”

“…This technology has already been used in a broad range of scenarios across the board of surgical specialties. [8][9][10][11] We now report using this technology in TAAD.…”

Biocompatibility of Bespoke 3D-Printed Titanium Alloy Plates for Treating Acetabular Fractures

“…At present, due to the shape of current acetabular fracture plates that do not meet the clinical need, as they do not fit closely to the fracture, the duration of surgery has to be prolonged for intraoperative bending of the plate, increasing surgical risk. Thus, as one of the most promising directions in 3D-printing technology [ 14 , 15 ], personalized 3D-printing is considered an effective way of solving the problems described above [ 16 , 17 ].…”