This study aims to propose and validate a pixel-based method for direct printing of customized bone implants and prostheses from two-dimensional medical imaging data, eliminating the need for intermediate standard tessellation language (STL) files. The method reduces processing time and human intervention while preserving natural bone structures.
The proposed method uses pixel-based additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, such as digital light processing and binder jetting technology to print the 3D part directly from bitmap data. The process is validated by comparing its accuracy and efficiency with conventional STL-based workflows in replicating the trabecular structure of bone tissues.
A pixel-based direct printing approach successfully preserves the intricate trabecular structure of bones while significantly reducing processing time and eliminating the requirement of intermediate 3D reconstruction of bones. The results demonstrate comparable accuracy and efficiency to conventional STL-based workflows, highlighting its potential for patient-specific medical applications and surgical planning.
The proposed direct bitmap-to-print approach can potentially improve accessibility to patient-specific implants and prostheses, particularly in resource-constrained societies, by simplifying the workflow and reducing costs.
This study introduces a novel direct bitmap-to-print method for medical AM, bypassing the traditional STL-based workflow. By using pixel-based AM technologies, the proposed method provides a faster and more efficient solution for producing patient-specific bone models, addressing key challenges in traditional workflows.
