Current application and future prospects of 3D printing in otorhinolaryngology - A narrative review

Abstract

Application of three-dimensional printing (3D) technology is relatively new in healthcare, but significant progress has been made over the last few decades. The technology has been evolved and became more accessible and affordable for the medical use. The aim of the review article is to discuss the potential use  of 3D printing in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery. In the article, use of this novel technology is discussed across various subspecialties in terms of skill training, surgical planning and development of customised prosthesis. Internet searching was also performed for the commercial utility of 3D printed devices in ENT patient care. 3D printing is a promising technology. Numerous articles have been published in the international literature on its potential use in healthcare and progress is being made regularly by researchers to expand its implications in ENT. However, shortage of suitable 3D material which simulate human tissues for developing better training models discloses area of further research. Integration of tissue engineering 3D bioprinting provides significant opportunity to develop functional 3D printed implant for postsurgical reconstruction and organ transplantation. [Abstract copyright: © Association of Otolaryngologists of India 2021.