anonymous
Guest
anonymous
Guest
The concept of using 3D printing to print things related to the medical field seems very foreign. How can we use a printer to print out organs, tools, medical devices, etc.? But in reality, this concept is very much true and it is happening quite frequently. For example, it is used commonly in hearing aids and dental devices. It is more complicated in things like implants, prostheses, and other surgical things but research states that even this will be an achievable advancement in the near future. Three-dimensional printing is a process that includes controlled materials coming together to build a three dimensional object. It allows for immediate and on-time production in a cheaper manner. This is a new method, but it is rapidly expanding and advancing the medical profession as a whole. Three-dimensional printing is also a way for hospitals to save money. For example, “Low costs of the 3D printed limb prostheses are especially important in prosthetics for children, since they outgrow the prostheses fast. Moreover, stretchable and expandable 3D prosthetics may soon be available for children that could “grow” with the child. One can find on the Internet “DIY” assistive devices that can be printed by virtually anyone, anywhere. Taking into account the high cost of the traditional prostheses, this leads to a revolution disrupting the prosthesis market.” (Dodziuk H.) I believe that the impact and future of using 3D printing is bright in the medical field. Once it is perfected and used on a larger scale, it will change the dynamics of health care completely. This will give the health care profession a leeway into being a first mover when it comes to 3D printing.