
In this study, we have fabricated Ti6Al4V implants at three different inclination angles (0, 45 and 90 degrees) reporting the relationship between cell attachment, surface topography and surface chemistry at each angle. As selective laser melted (SLM) metallic additive manufactured implants become common, a key, but overlooked design parameter is its inclination angle. A version of this abstract was previously published as a poster during the Royal Australasian Collegeĭeveloping patient-specific biomedical implants for clinical application requires the integration of material science, manufacturing engineering, and biology. We seek to highlight the current surgical applications of 3D printing, and the ease with which it can be adopted by health services. Conclusion: 3D printing lends itself to improving quality and safety by aiding the visualisation of complex anatomy. In addition, we present solutions to the often-quoted barriers to adoption, such as the lack of technical knowledge, perceived costs, and the lack of definitive regulation in Australia to date. Patient-specific models have improved patient safety with reduced time under anaesthesia, reduction in operation time, shorter recovery times, and a reduction in blood loss intraoperatively. 3D printing has also proven to be a useful adjunct in pre-surgical planning. 3D printing also improves patient and carer satisfaction and engagement when compared to other media used in the therapeutic relationship. Firstly, 3D printing allows for improved patient and carer understanding of their anatomy and the planned surgical procedure. Results: We present the four main ways 3D printing is improving quality and safety in Surgery. The findings from these studies were then compared against our own centre's experiences as an early adopter of the technology.


392 articles resulted, which were read in full to identify relevant studies. The search terms used were "Printing, Three-Dimensional" AND "Surgery". Methods: We performed a literature search using Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE and PubMed.


We seek to demonstrate the contributions to patient-centred care, quality and safety 3D printing brings to current best practice, and break down the perceived barriers to health services adopting this technology. Introduction: There has been an explosion of interest in 3D printing in Surgery.
