Healthcare, a constantly evolving and growing space is ascending to the next level with Additive Manufacturing (AM) or 3D printing, which is a process of creating three dimensional solid objects by means of a digital file. 3D printing is being effectively used across many industries and is now finding increasing usage in the medicine and pharmaceutical sector as well. Here are some of the revolutionary advancements of 3D printing.

As 3D printing has revolutionized the manufacturing process, doctors and researchers are hopeful that it will benefit millions of people in need of artificial braces and limbs. 3D printing is one of the most sought after innovations that introduced less expensive prosthetics. Individuals pay anywhere between three lakh rupees to thirty lakhs rupees for prosthetics. With 3D printing, the cost drops considerably to an astonishing 3000 rupees, resulting in economic viability.

In a recent testing, researchers have exhibited a model for a 3D bioprinter that can make operational human skin. It can be used on patients who require skin grafting, for clinical studies and research experiments as well as the testing of pharmaceutical, chemical, and cosmetic, products. It is also apt for use in transplants on burn patients and those with other skin problems.

The need for partial skull replacements has increased in the recent past. In dangerous accidents where the skull of an individual is damaged beyond repair, skull plates are fixed to allow continuous functionality. The skull is first scanned to create a digital replica, before a replacement plate s printed out. This step in 3D printing is a boon for crucial and Immediate skull replacement surgeries.

Doctors have recently honed an innovative method to develop a fully formed human ear, utilizing the patients own stem cells. By beginning with a 3D printed polymer mould of an ear, the procedure involves implanting stem cells that are derived from fat.

Personalised dosage is another revolutionary step in 3D printing that will benefit millions, globally. A doctor would be able to use each patients individual information to customise and produce an optimal medication dose, rather than relying on a standard set of dosages.

Although, 3D printing in the pharmaceutical sector witnessed greater advancements, there is much to explore and develop further. Nevertheless, there is a constant process of upgrading and enhancing current printing technology and materials.

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How 3D Printing Is Changing Healthcare - Version Weekly

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