# Additive Manufacturing for Surgical Planning and Education: A Review
## 5 Discussion  
The review presented herein underscores the transformative impact of AM in the fields of surgical planning and medical education within the healthcare sector. The widespread adoption of AM technologies has not only revolutionized the creation and customization of medical devices but has also significantly augmented the efficacy of clinical products [17; 18; 19]. The capacity of AM to facilitate intricate surgical planning and enhance educational practices is evident in its multifaceted applications.  
One of the primary contributions of AM in healthcare is its pivotal role in surgical planning [20]. The ability of surgeons to practice and refine operative techniques using 3D-printed models contributes to a substantial reduction in operational risk and time [21; 22]. The tangible and three-dimensional representation of anatomical structures allows surgeons to gain confidence in their procedures before entering the operating room [23]. Additionally, and the capacity to create patient-specific implants through AM ensures a higher degree of precision and compatibility, leading to improved surgical outcomes [24; 25].  
The educational arena has also witnessed a paradigm shift with the integration of AM [26; 27; 28]. The creation of detailed and accurate 3D models of human anatomy has become an invaluable tool for teaching both students and experienced medical professionals. AM facilitates a hands-on learning experience and enables a deeper understanding of complex anatomical structures [29]. These 3D models serve as effective visual aids, enhancing the comprehension of medical concepts and promoting better retention of knowledge among learners [30; 31; 32].  
Despite the remarkable advancements, challenges persist in the field of AM in healthcare [33]. Issues such as insufficient mechanical properties in 3D printing, the imperative to scale up production for mass manufacturing, the development of intelligent printable biomaterials, and the intricate task of vascularization in 3D bioprinting pose ongoing hurdles [34; 35; 36; 37; 38]. Addressing these challenges will require innovative solutions and collaborative efforts between researchers and clinicians and industry stakeholders.  
Looking ahead, it is evident that the healthcare sector is on the cusp of witnessing novel paradigms in AM technologies [39; 40]. The continued exploration of specialized biomaterials, coupled with advancements in design adaptability and functional integration, is poised to redefine the landscape of clinical products [41; 42]. Intelligent solutions to overcome current limitations will likely pave the way for a more widespread and impactful integration of AM in healthcare [43; 44; 45].  
Figure 16: Fitting of the metal template to the FDM-printed cervical verteba model [108].  
Finally, the transformative influence of AM in surgical planning and medical education is signaling a promising trajectory for the future of healthcare. As the field continues to evolve, addressing current challenges and embracing innovative solutions will be imperative for unlocking the full potential of AM technologies in enhancing patient care and medical education.