Advances in clinical application of 3D printing technology in spinal surgery

The application of 3D printing technology in medicine may greatly affect the surgical methods of spinal surgery. Currently, 3D printing technology has been applied to preoperative and intraoperative. Before surgery, 3D printing can be used to create precise anatomical models of spinal deformities. In addition, these anatomical models can be used to plan and simulate complex spinal lesions. 3D printed anatomical models can provide better understanding of anatomy than CT or MRI. During surgery, 3D printing has been used to create surgical guidance systems, create templates and customize specific shapes of implants. Although 3D printing technology still faces the challenge of expensive equipment and materials, this technology has many advantages such as improving patient prognosis and reducing the radiation dose of patients. This article mainly introduces the clinical application and future development of 3D printing technology in spine surgery. Key words: Spinal injury; Manikins; Review; 3D printing technology