Clinical evaluation of 3D printing and tissue engineering in craniofacial reconstruction: A prospective observational study

The clinical results of tissue engineering and 3D printing in craniofacial reconstruction in 60 patients followed up over 3 years. Patient-specific implants and tissue-engineered scaffolds were created with state-of-the-art 3D printing techniques together with autologous stem cells and growth factors. Excellent success rates were attained with 92% implant integration, 88% satisfaction with aesthetics, and 85% return to function, with complications being restricted to 10% and treated conservatively. The technique decreased operative time, hospital stay and total cost of treatment substantially when compared with traditional techniques. Thus, we show the clinical application of 3D printing and tissue engineering as an effective, safe, and economically viable method in craniofacial reconstructive surgery.