Although 3D printing isn't yet fully capable of making functional parts in addition to prototypes, the current technology can benefit doctors and biomedical engineers, according to Machine Design Senior Editor Stephan Mraz.
Here are five uses Mr. Mraz gleaned from Stratasys, a leading 3D printer manufacturer and presenter at the MDTX Show.
1. Medical research and development.
Using 3D printing to test instruments and implants, biomedical engineers can develop non-working parts — and sometimes functional parts — more quickly than if they were hand-crafting prototypes. Physicians can also understand 3D prototypes more easily than 2D models, allowing them to provide valuable feedback.
By producing injection-mold production-grade parts for verification and validation testing, 3D printing can significantly reduce tooling costs and the time needed to develop tooling.
2. Preclinical testing.
With the ability to produce realistic anatomical models, 3D printing facilitates the design of custom versions. Data from MRI machines and CAT scanners can be used to program 3D printers to make replicas of patients' bones, organs and structures involved in surgical procedures, helping designers properly size devices or implants.
3. Manufacturing.
For clinical trials and pilot commercial launches, 3D printing is a cost-effective way to manufacture a low volume of parts. The technology can also produce fit-for-purpose ancillary manufacturing tools, such as jigs and fixtures.
4. Medical marketing and education.
Companies can demonstrate how new devices work using life-sized models created by 3D printers, which can be created at a low volume and low cost.
5. Clinical procedures.
Physicians can print 3D models of a patient's anatomy and practice or modify surgical techniques they plan on using during an operation. Demonstrating another clinical benefit to 3D printing, some medical device makers are packaging implants that are custom-sized and fitted for a specific patient.