Revolutionizing Cancer Care: The Role of 3D Printing in Personalized Oncology

Abstract

Background: recent advancements in three-dimensional (3D) printing technology have transformed cancer care by enabling the development of highly personalized and efficient therapeutic solutions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest 3D printing methodologies and their integration into oncology, highlighting their diverse applications across various cancer types. Results: key fabrication techniques, such as fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), and semisolid extrusion, are explored, highlighting their ability to produce intricate, patient-specific structures with tailored mechanical and biological properties. These technologies have revolutionized cancer treatment by creating anatomical models that enhance surgical planning, drug delivery systems that enable localized and controlled release, and patient-specific implants that improve clinical outcomes. The application of 3D printing has extended to diverse cancer types, including lungs, colorectal, breast, and ovarian cancers, facilitating the development of tumor microenvironment models for studying cancer progression, drug resistance, and treatment response. Additionally, 3D-printed molds and boluses have demonstrated improved precision in radiation therapy by ensuring accurate delivery tailored to individual patient anatomy. By bridging engineering and medicine, 3D printing offers a transformative approach for addressing the complexities of oncology. Conclusions: this review highlights the transformative role of 3D printing in modern cancer care, emphasizing its capacity to drive innovation, enable personalized treatment strategies, and enhance precision, ultimately improving therapeutic outcomes and patient care. Furthermore, this review integrates the latest developments regarding the application of 3D printing technology in cancer treatment.