3D Printing has been transforming various industries globally. Healthcare Additive Manufacturing Market size worldwide was valued at USD 1.52 Billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 7.78 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 20.22% from 2022 to 2030. In recent year medical industry is adopting this innovative technology, particularly for customized solutions in medicine and dentistry. Additionally, Additive manufacturing’s ability to fabricate intricate and customized structures has revolutionized the way medical and dental professionals diagnose, treat, and improve patients’ quality of life.
This article by AM Chronicle explores the integration of additive manufacturing in the Middle East’s healthcare sector, highlighting its potential benefits and challenges.
This content series is brought to you by AM Conclave Middle East, to know more visit www.amconclave.com
Advancements in Medical Applications
Additive manufacturing has enabled the production of patient-specific prosthetics and orthotics. In the Middle East, patients with limb amputations or congenital disabilities can now access prosthetics tailored to their unique anatomy, improving mobility and comfort. The technology’s rapid prototyping capabilities also facilitate the design and fabrication of custom orthotic devices for patients with musculoskeletal conditions, further enhancing their treatment outcomes.
Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) operates a hospital in Jordan that provides 3D-printed prostheses to war-wounded patients from Syria. The use of additive manufacturing technology enables the creation of customized prosthetics, improving mobility and comfort for patients with amputations or limb injuries resulting from conflict. By employing 3D printing, the hospital offers an efficient and cost-effective solution, reducing waiting times and providing specialized care to those in need. The initiative showcases how technology can positively impact the lives of war victims, restoring mobility and enhancing their quality of life in conflict-affected regions.
Orthotics and Prosthetics market in UAE is mature with highly qualified professionals working very closely with Orthopedic doctors and hospitals. There are around 25 clinics in UAE alone dealing with O&P devices. The major devices manufactured are Insoles, Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFO) Knee and Ankle Foot Orthoses (KAFO), night splints, Cranial Helmets, scoliosis braces and immobilizer devices.
Surgeons in the Middle East are leveraging 3D printing to create precise surgical guides that assist in complex procedures. These guides improve surgical accuracy, reduce operation time, and minimize the risk of complications. Additionally, additive manufacturing allows for the creation of patient-specific implants that perfectly fit a recipient’s anatomy, leading to better implant integration and enhanced patient outcomes.
The Middle East’s first metal 3D-printed surgical guide was successfully created back in May 2017. The guide was produced using 3D printing technology, enabling precise surgical planning and improved patient outcomes.
Additive manufacturing has proven to be a valuable tool for medical education and training. Medical schools and training centers in the Middle East can now produce detailed anatomical models, allowing students and practitioners to enhance their understanding of complex structures and practice various procedures without risking patient safety. These models help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, resulting in more competent healthcare professionals.
Advancements in Dental Applications
The adoption of additive manufacturing in the Middle East’s dental industry has revolutionized the fabrication of dental crowns, bridges, and dentures. Dental laboratories can now produce highly accurate and personalized restorations, ensuring optimal fit and aesthetics for patients. This advancement has significantly improved patient satisfaction and reduced the turnaround time for dental procedures.
Researchers in the Middle East have successfully developed 3D-printed denture teeth suitable for long-term clinical use. The study involved using digital light processing (DLP) technology to create the denture teeth with a polymer resin. The 3D-printed teeth demonstrated promising mechanical properties, making them comparable to conventional denture teeth. Additionally, the manufacturing process is efficient and cost-effective, making it a viable option for dental professionals. The breakthrough offers an innovative solution for personalized dental restorations, potentially improving patient satisfaction and reducing turnaround time for dental procedures in the region.
Additive manufacturing has also played a crucial role in the orthodontic field, allowing for the production of clear aligners tailored to individual patients. The Middle East has witnessed an increasing number of dental practices offering clear aligner treatments, providing patients with a more discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces.
3D Printed clear aligners companies in Middle East are as follows:
- Basma Dental Center (BDC): Based in Dubai, UAE, Basma Dental Center offers 3D printed clear aligners using state-of-the-art technology. They provide personalized orthodontic treatment plans for patients seeking discreet teeth straightening solutions.
- K-Line Europe Middle East Africa (MEA): K-Line is a global dental company with a presence in the Middle East, offering a range of orthodontic products, including 3D printed clear aligners.
- Invisalign Providers: Invisalign, a well-known global brand for clear aligners, has various dental clinics and providers across the Middle East. These providers offer Invisalign treatments, which utilize 3D printing to create custom aligners for patients.
- Byte Aligners Middle East: Byte is a US-based clear aligner company that operates internationally, including in the Middle East. They offer remote treatment services, providing clear aligners directly to patients’ homes.
- Bayan Dental: Bayan Dental, headquartered in Kuwait, has embraced 3D printing technology for various dental applications, including clear aligners.
- D4D Technologies MEA: This company offers digital dentistry solutions, including 3D printing, to dental professionals in the Middle East and Africa.
Incorporating 3D printing into digital dentistry workflows has transformed the way dental professionals plan and execute treatments. From digital scanning of patients’ teeth to the design and fabrication of dental appliances, additive manufacturing streamlines the entire process, making it more efficient and accurate.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While additive manufacturing has brought remarkable advancements to the medical and dental fields in the Middle East, several challenges remain. The high initial costs of 3D printers and materials can be a barrier to widespread adoption, especially for smaller clinics and healthcare facilities. Additionally, there may be regulatory and quality control challenges associated with using 3D-printed medical devices and restorations.
However, as technology advances and the costs decrease over time, the future of additive manufacturing in the Middle East’s medical and dental applications looks promising. Further research and collaboration between the healthcare and manufacturing industries will likely lead to more innovative solutions and improved patient care.
Conclusion
Additive manufacturing has been adapted by various medical and dental professionals in the Middle East. From custom prosthetics and surgical guides to personalized dental restorations, 3D printing has become a tool in enhancing patient outcomes, reducing costs, and advancing medical and dental practices. As the technology continues to evolve and become more accessible, its integration into the region’s healthcare sector will lead to innovations improving healthcare in Middle East.
About AM Conclave Middle East
AM Conclave Middle East is an initiative to bring the entire Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing ecosystem in the Middle East on one platform including Government, Users, Software Providers, Hardware, Material Manufacturers, Research Institutes and Standards & Certification Bodies, with an aim to advance the adoption of AM in line with the various initiatives and strategies in the region to catalyze manufacturing.
AM Conclave Middle East is also conducting sessions focused on medical and dental additive manufacturing to benefit wide range of stakeholders.Â
The event will feature application and technology focused conference mapping the latest developments and trends in the world of Additive Manufacturing. A high quality technical conference will also be supported by a technology showcase and networking zone for the industry stakeholders to showcase their solutions and exchange ideas.
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