3D printing in orthopedic oncology surgery

"3D printing" is a common term that refers to a large variety of additive-based technologies which operate on the principle of converting a computer-generated 3D image into a physical model. 3D printed parts can assume virtually any complex shape, with solid and porous components that can be combined to provide the best combination of strength and performances. Currently, the primary applications for 3D printing are the production of anatomical models for planning and surgery simulation, patient-specific instruments and custom-made prosthesis. Orthopedic oncological surgery often requires, for its own nature, accurate and often wide resections of bone and soft tissues involved by the tumoral mass or next to it. one of the latest and most promising innovations is represented by the 3D printing technology, whose main advantage, in this field of application, is represented by the patient-specificity, essential in a surgery that demands high precision and maximal respect for the patients' healthy native bones and soft tissues. As a rule, 3D printing technique finds application, in oncological orthopedics. in the following major fields: 1) 3D printing for pre-operative planning and training in oncological orthopedics; 2) 3D printed surgical cutting; guides in oncological orthopedics; 3) 3D printed custom made prosthesis.