Additive Advancements in Medical Technology: Easing 3D-Printable Instruments Into Orthopedic Surgery

Abstract

With the increasing relevance of 3D-printed technology and materials in medical applications, these 3D-printed materials must meet or surpass the standards which apply to the original materials. This thesis focuses on the application of a 3D-printed guide block for proximal humerus surgery, for which AISI 316L stainless steel or titanium is the original material for these guide blocks. Preliminary research was done to determine the different performance indices for 3D-printable plastics. Materials which performed well by these standards were recommended for testing. One of the materials was printed as a guide block and tested, which involved the block undergoing sterilization cycles. These cycles consisted of autoclave cycles and washing cycles with a bleach solution. Results of these tests showed there should be improvements in printing resolution for 3D-printed guide blocks, and some procedural adjustments should be made before making final judgments on a material's feasibility for surgical use.