Use of 3D Printing Technology in Fracture Management: A Review and Case Series

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) offers exciting opportunities in medicine, particularly in orthopaedics. The boundaries of 3D printing are continuously being re-established and have paved the way for further innovations, including 3D bioprinting, custom printing refined methods, 4D bioprinting, and 5D printing potential. The quality of these applications have been steadily improving, increasing their widespread use among clinicians. This article provides a review of the current literature with a brief introduction to the process of additive manufacturing, 3D printing, and its applications in fracture care. We illustrate this technology with a case series of 3D printing used for correction of complex fractures/nonunion. Factors limiting the use of this technology, including cost, and potential solutions are discussed. Finally, we discuss 4D bioprinting and 5D printing and their potential role in fracture surgery.