Medical additive manufacturing then, now, and will

This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution and future of additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, in medicine. Starting from its historical beginnings, we delve into the present state of this revolutionary technology, examining its current applications in the production of medical devices, prosthetics, tissue engineering, personalized implants, orthopedics, and even pharmaceuticals. We explore the latest advancements in additive manufacturing technologies, including Stereolithography, Digital Light Processing, Selective Laser Sintering, Direct Metal Laser Sintering, Fused Deposition Modeling, Multi Jet Fusion, and PolyJet Technology. The chapter also examines innovative materials, such as polymers, ceramics, metals, and bioinks. Furthermore, we address the regulatory and ethical landscape surrounding the application of additive manufacturing in medicine, including quality assurance and control considerations. In addition, the chapter provides insight into the economic impact, market trends, and commercial aspects associated with adopting this technology in the healthcare sector. Looking towards the future, we identify emerging technologies, potential applications, and upcoming research directions in additive manufacturing for medicine. The chapter concludes with a summary of the evolutionary journey of this transformative technology and its potential to revolutionize the medical field and future perspectives. This review provides a broad outlook and critical insights for researchers, medical practitioners, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, thereby aiding in understanding and harnessing the potential of additive manufacturing for advancing healthcare solutions.