3D printing innovations in catheter design to reduce catheter-associated infections: a scoping review

Abstract

Catheter-associated infections (CAIs) remain a significant healthcare challenge, driven by biofilm formation, antimicrobial resistance, and design limitations of conventional catheters. While coatings and sterilization methods have advanced, long-term infection prevention is often inadequate. This scoping review, conducted using PRISMA-ScR guidelines, analyzed 36 peer-reviewed studies selected from 545 records retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Eight innovation domains were identified: 3D printing technologies, antimicrobial coatings, surface engineering, biodegradable materials, AI-assisted design, sterilization compatibility, regulatory challenges, and economic feasibility. Findings indicate that 3D-printed catheters can integrate personalized geometries, targeted antimicrobial delivery, and improved biocompatibility. However, clinical adoption is hindered by methodological heterogeneity, limited long-term trials, and regulatory barriers. This review underscores the transformative potential of 3D printing in catheter design and infection control, while emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, standardized evaluation, and robust regulatory frameworks to translate laboratory innovations into real-world healthcare solutions.