Rapid prototyping in veterinary medicine: Review

Abstract

Rapid prototyping is performed using three-dimensional (3D) printers, which use various materials, such as nylon, metal or tissue cells, enabling the production of objects of different shapes and sizes. And it works from a virtual image of the desired object. This technology brings several possibilities in veterinary medicine, such as the manufacture of reliable anatomical models, plates, prostheses and drill guides customized for the patient, contributing to the training of undergraduate students and residents, in addition to increasing the surgeon's confidence, by enabling planning and training prior to procedures, increasing surgical precision and reducing procedure time and the number of iatrogenic injuries caused in structures adjacent to the area of interest. In addition, prototypes can contribute to the rehabilitation of traumatized or mutilated patients, such as birds, turtles and other wild animals. However, its relatively high cost, and the lack of trained professionals for its elaboration, still limit its use, but the reduction in the time it provides for carrying out treatments can compensate for its investment.