3D Bio-Printing in the Field of Cardiac Surgery, Bone and Ligament Surgery and Skin Surgery

Abstract

3D bioprinting is a newly developed technology, the basic idea is to use a 3d printer which substitutes the ‘ink’ with specialized bioinks in hopes of being able to print fully functioning organs or parts of an organ. This technology combines multiple aspects of engineering, medicine and manufacturing to revolutionize medical treatments and help save patients from life threatening conditions and improve their overall quality of life. There are various clinical applications of 3D bioprinting in the field of Cardiac Surgery, Bone and Ligament Surgery and skin surgery. All of these subsections follow the same basic strategy but also involve slightly different techniques that are unique to them. The technology of 3D printing is very nuanced and convoluted making it susceptible to multiple ethical, legal and social issues regarding their use.