3D printing in ophthalmology uses additive manufacturing to create customised models, tools, and implants layer by layer from digital designs. It enhances surgical planning, education, and device development.
Applications
Printed orbital models help plan complex fracture repairs and tumour surgery, while custom guides assist precise implant placement. Research explores printed corneal scaffolds, drug‑delivery devices, and bespoke prosthetic eyes.
- Allows rapid prototyping of surgical instruments and implants
- Patient‑specific anatomy can be reproduced from CT or MRI scans
- Bioprinting aims to deposit living cells within scaffolds for future tissue replacement
- Material selection must consider biocompatibility and sterilisation
Benefits
3D printing can improve accuracy, reduce operating time, and support training on realistic models. Many uses are already routine in specialised centres.
- Costs and regulatory requirements vary with the complexity of printed devices
- Printed teaching models aid patient understanding of procedures
- Full biological organ printing remains a long‑term research goal
- Integration with imaging and planning software underpins clinical workflows
