Musculoskeletal 3D Printing

Orthopedic surgeons were among the earliest adopters of 3D printing and are now increasingly using this technology for therapeutic purposes. 3D printed cutting guides are useful to make accurate bony cuts for deformity correction, patient-specific arthroplasty, and tumor resection. While 3D printed implants for spine, arthroplasty, and tumors are manufactured predominantly by implant manufacturers, a select few institutes have successfully manufactured in hospital 3D printed implants. Complex cases are increasingly being planned with the help of 3D printing and other outputs from the final anatomic representation. These models are also helpful in teaching residents, fellows, and junior surgeons. Finally, the models aid patient education and consent process. 3D bioprinting is on the horizon and is expected to impact regenerative orthopedics. The purpose of this chapter is to describe the past, present, and future of 3D printing in musculoskeletal disorders.