Management of hard tissue abnormalities and digital orthopaedics using additive manufacturing techniques

Abstract

Additive manufacturing technologies are expected to disrupt the majority of the traditional way of manufacturing methods, particularly in the field of medical and healthcare. Bones and teeth are vital organs that are susceptible to various disorders due to environmental, traumatic, genetic factors and inherent malignant disorders. Most of the implants/prostheses normally used are cast and have a standard size and shape. Additive manufacturing has opened opportunities to replace these hard tissues with customized implants, prostheses or the whole additive manufactured organ itself while considering anatomical/structural parts and functional aspects of the body. It helps to visualize and mimic internal organs/models, pre-planning via simulation, anatomical demonstration, treatments and surgical teaching/training to technical staff by medical professionals. The current review covers additive manufacturing applications for the possible treatment of osteosarcoma, bone tumors, traumatic fracture, congenital anomalies, dental diseases, vertebral and cranial abnormalities, etc. from toe to head highlighting printing of long bones, short bones, cartilages, teeth and more based on the general classification of bones shape, that is, the external shape and size of different bones with some case studies. The article has also touched upon the additive manufacturing competitive edge over the conventional methods in terms of complexity, easiness, cost-effectiveness and reduced time. However, the internal structures have not been addressed so far in additive manufacturing which could be a new corner to enhance the properties of bones and teeth in the future.