In recent years, with the rapid advancement of 3D printing technology, its application in clinical medicine has become increasingly widespread. This innovative technique is known for its rapid prototyping capabilities, which allow for the creation of precise digital models that drive personalized manufacturing. It excels at producing complex shapes and structures, making it ideal for customizing surgical tools to meet individual patient needs.
At Tongren Hospital, ophthalmologists have begun using 3D printing to design specialized surgical instruments tailored to their specific requirements. One such example is a customized scalpel, which may appear unremarkable at first glance but holds significant importance due to its unique design. According to Qi Xiaopeng, the angle of the blade plays a crucial role in improving both surgeon comfort and surgical success rates for particular patients.
The process of creating these custom tools is relatively straightforward. Doctors first express their needs, and within an hour, a digital model is created. A 3D printer then produces a prototype in just 30 minutes. This speed is essential, as surgeries often need to be planned and executed within a week of a patient’s admission. Traditional manufacturing methods simply cannot match this level of efficiency.
Known in academic circles as additive manufacturing, 3D printing differs from conventional techniques like cutting or molding. Instead, it builds objects layer by layer using materials such as photosensitive resins. Among the various technologies available, Qi Xiaopeng highlights polyjet as one of the most advanced. This method uses a resin spray curing process, where layers are quickly hardened using ultraviolet light. It allows for high precision and is particularly useful in medical applications.
In the medical field, 3D printing materials can generally be categorized into four types. The first includes non-biological materials used for creating anatomical models for surgical planning or doctor-patient communication. The second consists of biocompatible materials suitable for implants that support organ repair. The third type is biodegradable materials, which assist in tissue regeneration while being absorbed by the body over time. The most challenging category involves living cells, which can be used to print biological tissues for research on disease mechanisms and drug testing.
Despite its potential, the widespread use of 3D printing in medicine faces several challenges. In China, there is currently no comprehensive safety evaluation system or legal framework for 3D-printed medical devices. As a result, these devices are still limited to experimental use rather than routine clinical practice. Additionally, domestic 3D printing technology lags behind global standards, and key materials and equipment are largely imported, limiting accessibility.
Qi Xiaopeng acknowledges that while 3D printing offers great promise, its full integration into medical practice remains a work in progress. Continued advancements in materials, technology, and regulatory support will be essential for its broader adoption.
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