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The 3D printed medical device market will skyrocket to $16.5 billion by 2034 – 3DPrint.com

The 3D printed medical device market, expected to reach $16.5 billion by 2034, is on a remarkable growth trajectory. According to a recent report by Additive Manufacturing Research titled “Medical Devices Market Trends and Opportunities; Prosthetics, dentistry, audiology” – the market is expected to grow from $4.5 billion in 2023, reaching a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12% over the next decade.

Transformational impact

3D printing technology has revolutionized the healthcare sector, significantly impacting the production and availability of medical devices. This technology has helped create personalized medical devices tailored to individual patient needs, reducing development costs and supporting innovation in advanced medical solutions. For example, custom-made implants and prosthetics, such as titanium implants for skull reconstruction and personalized prosthetic limbs, have improved patient outcomes and comfort.

Over the past two decades, 3D printing has not only improved patient outcomes, but also increased access to healthcare. In the dental industry, 3D printing allows for the rapid production of crowns, bridges and dentures with high precision, even allowing patients to be served on the same day. Fitted hearing aids and other audiological devices such as cochlear implants have become more accurate and comfortable, improving the quality of life for people with hearing impairments. Additionally, surgeons are now using 3D printed models and guides for preoperative planning, reducing errors and improving surgical outcomes.

During the COVID-19 pandemic years, 3D printing has played a key role in addressing manufacturing challenges, streamlining supply chains, and bringing device design and manufacturing closer to patients and suppliers. The ability to quickly produce essential medical supplies such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and ventilator components has proven how flexible and fast 3D printing can be.

General Motors employees 3D print face shields in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic

General Motors employees 3D print face shields in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Sauger/General Motors.

As the industry evolves, the integration of 3D printing technology is expected to drive significant development, particularly in the fields of prosthetics, audiology and dental care. Orthopedic solutions, including custom braces, splints and 3D printed implants, are also gaining in importance, offering improved fit and functionality. Additionally, creating personalized drug delivery systems, such as custom pills, increases the effectiveness of therapy and helps patients stick to treatment plans.

Key conclusions

Building on this advancement, the report highlights several key trends and opportunities in the 3D printed medical device market. Continuous innovations in application-specific 3D printing platforms, especially in the dental sector, are the main driving force behind the market growth. This technological progress improves the precision and personalization of medical devices, making them more effective and tailored to the individual patient’s needs.

Another important trend is the digitization of healthcare and medical device supply chains. This change makes manufacturing processes more efficient and responsive, which is essential to maintaining the growth in popularity of 3D printing. By using digital tools and technology, the healthcare industry can streamline operations and improve patient care.

Additionally, regulatory agencies such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) are gradually issuing guidance on 3D printing medical devices. This regulatory progress is critical to the broader acceptance and integration of 3D printed devices in healthcare. With clear guidance and support from these agencies, manufacturers can more confidently develop and bring innovative 3D printed solutions to market, ensuring they are safe and effective for patients.

A man showing how 3D Systems creates implantable medical devices

3D Systems creates implantable medical devices. Photo courtesy of 3D Systems.

Segmentation and forecast

To gain a deeper understanding of the market dynamics, the report provides in-depth analysis segmented by technology, materials and services. This segmentation helps identify specific areas of growth and opportunities for stakeholders in this emerging 3D printing ecosystem. The data shows that a significant part of the market’s revenues are services, followed by materials and equipment.

According to the report, the projected market revenue for 3D printed medical devices from 2022 to 2034 shows a steady increase in market value, with total revenue expected to reach $16.5 billion by 2034. This growth is spread across significant contributions from various segments, with services having generate $11.5 billion, materials – $3.7 billion, and equipment – ​​$1.3 billion. This upward trend highlights the growing importance and use of 3D printing technology in the medical device industry.

3D Printed Medical Devices Market Total Revenue Chart

Total market revenues from 3D printed medical devices. Photo courtesy of Additive Manufacturing Research.

The report also profiles key vendors in the 3D printing industry, including 3D Systems, Formlabs, Stratasys and Materialize. These companies are at the forefront of innovation, providing the technologies and materials necessary to advance the medical device sector.

As 3D printing technology continues to develop, its application in the medical device industry will continue to expand. The prosthetics, audiology and dentistry segments are expected to benefit significantly from this technology, leading to more personalized and effective medical solutions. The report predicts that continued advancements in 3D printing platforms, coupled with regulatory support and digital supply chains, will continue to drive market growth.

3D printed dental models.

3D printed dental models. Photo courtesy of 3D Systems.

For industry stakeholders, this report is an invaluable resource to understand the market landscape and identify areas of potential growth. To explore these insights further and access a comprehensive data file with ten-year revenue forecasts broken down by technology, materials and services, visit the Additive Manufacturing Research website and download a free sample of the report.