Research on and application of 3D printing technology in orthoses

Three-dimensional(3D) printing, a key technique of rapid prototyping (RP), is developing rapidly all over the world. As 3D printing has a significant advantage of personalized manufacturing, it has exerted a profound effect on medicine. The high demand for personalized manufacturing in the field of orthosis provides an excellent opportunity for widespread use of 3D printing technique. This review briefly introduces the principles and characteristics of different forming methods of 3D printing, the types and characteristics of 3D printing materials widely used at present, and classification and clinical application of orthoses. We also summarize the domestic and international research on and manufacture of orthoses using 3D printing techniques, and discuss current problems and future development of 3D printing techniques in orthosis. Key words: Orthopedic fixation devices; Rehabilitation; Review; 3D Printing; Additive manufacturing