title: Additive manufacturing technology in reconstructive surgery.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Technological advances have been part and parcel of modern reconstructive surgery, in that practitioners of this discipline are continually looking for innovative ways to perfect their craft and improve patient outcomes. We are currently in a technological climate wherein advances in computers, imaging, and science have coalesced with resulting innovative breakthroughs that are not merely limited to improved outcomes and enhanced patient care, but may provide novel approaches to training the next generation of reconstructive surgeons.
  
  
  RESULTS
  New developments in software and modeling platforms, imaging modalities, tissue engineering, additive manufacturing, and customization of implants are poised to revolutionize the field of reconstructive surgery.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The interface between technological advances and reconstructive surgery continues to expand. Additive manufacturing techniques continue to evolve in an effort to improve patient outcomes, decrease operative time, and serve as instructional tools for the training of reconstructive surgeons.
authors.affiliation: aVeterans Administration Northern California Healthcare System bUniversity of California, Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA.
authors.forename: Scott C
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Fuller
authors.forename: Michael G
authors.initials: MG
authors.lastname: Moore
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D013517:Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation*; D066330:Printing, Three-Dimensional; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation*; D000066908:Simulation Training; D025321:Surgery, Computer-Assisted; D054457:Tissue Scaffolds