An end-user pilot survey to understand the awareness of 3D printing and its clinical applications in a small cohort of clinicians

Garima Rana; Sonam Sambyal; Ruchi Pathak Kaul; Nida Mir; Shivam Pandey; Sushma Sagar

doi:10.5455/JPHCM.20260105083333

Abstract
Background: 3D printing is a promising technology within healthcare, offering innovative solutions to benefit surgeons in diagnosis and treatment planning especially for the complicated case scenario. The customized solutions for the patients using 3D printing enhance precision in clinical practices, yet the extent of knowledge and utilization among end users remain unclear.
Aim: The aim of the study to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of 3D printing and its clinical applications among healthcare practitioners at tertiary care hospitals
Methods: A cross-sectional pilot survey using a self-administered questionnaire evaluating knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to 3D printing was conducted. The link to the survey was generated using Google Forms and shared with participants through various platforms (email, WhatsApp). Data were analyzed sing Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23 (IBM) and expressed as frequencies and percentages.
Results: Eighty-four responses were received; the majority was surgeons from tertiary care hospitals across India. 94% of the participants reported familiarity with 3D printing technology in clinical practice while only 51.2% had 3D printing facilities available at their institutions. The commonly reported application of 3D printing was in splint/implant designing, study models, and diagnostic purposes. The majority reported 3D printing to be advantageous over other modalities and expressed willingness to learn more.
Conclusions: The findings suggest acceptable awareness and positive attitude towards 3D printing among clinicians, yet a gap exists in practical knowledge and experience. A larger and more comprehensive survey is needed for a better understanding of 3D printing in clinical practice.

Key words: Printing, Three-Dimensional; Knowledge; Attitude; Delivery of Health Care; Practice Management, Medical; Patient Care.