How Can 3D Technologies Save Time and Costs in the Orthopedic Sector?

The medical sector has been greatly benefiting from the use of 3D technologies in recent years. One such example can be seen through one of the Chinese leaders in the field of orthopedics, Wuhan Biying Biotechnology Co., Ltd. Together with the help of the manufacturer SHINING3D, the two organizations created the world’s first instant 3D printing system for orthopedic external fixation. This solution will make it possible to meet the requirements of clinical practice specifications. In turn, this technology will reduce the time and costs associated with the production process, opening the door to new applications that were previously unimaginable.

From 3D scanning and digitizing methods to the additive manufacturing of medical equipment, the medical applications are numerous. In fact, according to research published by Research and Markets, the global market for 3D printed medical devices is expected to reach $4.9 billion by 2026. This figure demonstrates the ever-increasing growth around innovation and technological development in healthcare. In particular, one of the most prominent developments is related to the use of 3D scanners and 3D printers in the orthopedic sector with the aim of offering solutions tailored to the needs of each patient.

SHINING3D and Wuhan Biying Biotechnology have developed the world’s first 3D printing system for external orthopedic fixation (photo credits: Wuhan Biying Biotechnology)

Orthopedic External Fixation and 3D Technologies

Traditionally, orthopedic external fixation usually uses a plaster cast to aid the patient’s recovery. However, the patient cannot remove and clean it during treatment, so the effectiveness of the cast is affected. In addition, with little experience in CAD software and machinery handling, the entire production process can take a long time. Faced with this situation, the need has been emerging for solutions that allow users to readjust orthopedic devices with precision, promoting fracture healing without causing pain. And 3D technologies, both digitization and additive manufacturing, are the most optimal option in the orthopedic sector. This is what Biying Biotech’s R&D team observed after conducting several comparison tests and opting for collaboration with SHINING3D. Based on their results, they decided to integrate the EinScan Pro 2X multifunctional handheld 3D scanner and the EinScan H hybrid handheld 3D scanner.