Can 3D Printing Revolutionize Orthopaedic Devices? (AAOS)
FDA guidance is a first step
3D printing promises to be a revolution in orthopaedic device manufacturing. In 3D printing, parts are built up layer-by-layer by adding to a workpiece using a variety of materials and energy sources. 3D printing is more technically called additive manufacturing (AM) to distinguish it from traditional machining, which “subtracts” material from a solid billet or from a rough part that was cast or forged.
Although AM has been used in nonmedical industries for some time, it is still a relatively new technolo...