3D printing in the research and development of medical devices

Abstract 3D printing is a process to produce objects by adding selected materials together where necessary following digital 3D model guidance. The significances of this technology, such as the ability to construct complex geometric structures matched to patient’s anatomy or surgeon’s requirement, enable its wide applications in medicine, ranging from surgical planning tools to custom surgical devices. The translation of 3D printing in health care has been enhanced recently under the guidance of the regulatory agency. The focus of the present work is to demonstrate the translation aspects of 3D printing in medical devices. An overview of current 3D printing technologies, regulatory guidance, and 3D printed medical devices in the market is carried out in this chapter, along with a brief introduction of laboratory concepts such as bioprinting and 4D printing.