3D bioprinting in otorhinolaryngology: from bench to clinical application

Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is a promising additive manufacturing technology that uses imaging data and computer-assisted deposition of biological materials or cells to reconstruct complex 3D structures accurately. This technology has progressed rapidly, in part because of its integration across multiple disciplines and combination with other technologies for clinical applications. Advances in experimental research and clinical applications related to otorhinolaryngology have led to the development of diagnostic and treatment methods based on 3D bioprinting, including the development of tissue engineering scaffolds, biosensors, organ chips, and organoids, surgical planning, graft construction, and medical education. Additionally, otorhinolaryngologists will be better equipped to treat tissue function defects with personalized printed graft implants. It is also expected that 3D printing can be used to build ideal in vitro models in the future to help solve existing research challenges. This article briefly introduces the relevant 3D bioprinting technologies and bioinks that can be used by otorhinolaryngologists and discusses their potential applications in otorhinolaryngology.