A 3d printed heart in the hands of a researcher. Half is blue and half is white. Clear tubes are stemming from the model to represent arteries.

This 3D-printed robotic heart can simulate how a specific cardiac patient will benefit from different valve implants.
[Image courtesy of Melanie Gonick/MIT]

3D printing is helping more patients than ever before through personalized medical devices, faster and cheaper prototyping and more affordable manufacturing.

Recent developments include research into tissue and organ regeneration, lightning-fast responses to supply chain shortages, wearables that improve patient treatment, and major investments by device manufacturers.

Here are some of the 3D printing advances that show what the future may hold.

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