Application of Additive Manufacturing in Assisted Reproductive Techniques: What Is the Evidence? A Clinical and Technical Systematic Review of the Literature

• Published in: Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) Lithuania), 2024-11, Vol.60 (11), p.1889
• Main Authors: Kontogeorgi, Adamantia, Boutas, Ioannis, Tsangkalova, Gkalia, Messaropoulos, Pantelis, Koufopoulos, Nektarios I, Schwab, Roxana, Makrigiannakis, Antonis, Zanelli, Magda, Palicelli, Andrea, Zizzo, Maurizio, Broggi, Giuseppe, Caltabiano, Rosario, Kalantaridou, Sophia N
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 3-D printers; 3D printing; Additive manufacturing; assisted reproductive techniques; Biocompatibility; Evidence-based medicine; Extracellular matrix; Female; Fertility; Follicles; Humans; In vitro fertilization; Infertility, Female - therapy; Medical research; Medicine; Menstruation; Microfluidics; ovarian microenvironment; Ovaries; Printing, Three-Dimensional; Reproductive health; Reproductive Techniques, Assisted; Reproductive technologies; Research methodology; Stem cells; Systematic Review
• ISSN: 1648-9144; 1010-660X; 1648-9144
• DOI: 10.3390/medicina60111889

This article investigates the transformative impact of 3D and bio 3D printing technologies in assisted reproductive technology (ART), offering a comprehensive review of their applications in improving reproductive outcomes. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a thorough literature search focusing on the intersection of ART and additive manufacturing, resulting in the inclusion of 48 research papers. The study highlights bio 3D printing's potential in revolutionizing female infertility treatments, especially in follicle complex culture and ovary printing. We explore the use of decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) as bioink, demonstrating its efficacy in replicating the ovarian microenvironment for in vitro maturation of primordial oocytes. Furthermore, advancements in endometrial cavity interventions are discussed, including the application of sustained-release systems for growth factors and stem cell integration for endometrial regeneration, showing promise in addressing conditions like Asherman's syndrome and thin endometrium. We also examine the role of conventional 3D printing in reproductive medicine, including its use in educational simulators, personalized IVF instruments, and microfluidic platforms, enhancing training and precision in reproductive procedures. Our review underscores both 3D printing technologies' contribution to the dynamic landscape of reproductive medicine. They offer innovative solutions for individualized patient care, augmenting success rates in fertility treatments. This research not only presents current achievements but also anticipates future advancements in these domains, promising to expand the horizons for individuals and families seeking assistance in their reproductive journeys.