Veterinary care is the biggest out-of-pocket expense for pet owners. Moreover, the veterinary-related product industry was valued at more than $33 billion in 2021.
The market has shown steady growth of late, especially after the pandemic. It’s evident that people care a lot about their pets and veterinary care will be in huge demand.
The veterinary industry is looking at innovative technologies to cope with this growing demand, and that’s where additive manufacturing comes into play.
The biggest advantage of additive manufacturing in veterinary medicine is that it makes it possible to create customized treatment plans tailored to each patient.
When it comes to additive manufacturing applications in veterinary medicine, the possibilities are limitless.
Anatomical models of animal parts
Vets are using additive manufacturing to produce models of the patients’ internal organs before the surgery. This way, they can practice the procedure to get the incisions and techniques right.
With a replica on hand, vets can prepare for the surgery and account for any errors and issues before working on the animal and improve the success rate of their surgery.
Orthotic and prosthetics
With novel innovations in the veterinary field, prosthetics are becoming a common sight in the animal world.
The best part is that additive manufacturing facilitates complete flexibility in terms of shape, size as well as speed of manufacturing.
In the past, veterinarians have made titanium beak for a macaw , titanium jaw for a sea turtle, and titanium paws for a rescue dog.
Implants
Implanting is the way forward for additive manufacturing applications in veterinary medicine. This is especially useful in oncological cases where implants are required to offer support and restore function.
At present, an array of implants has been created including craniotomy flaps, limb replacement and prosthetic stumps using a range of metals including titanium.
Education
A variety of 3D printed tools are used by practicing veterinarians and students alike. Using these 3D printed anatomical tools, the next generation of vets can learn better and quicker.
Some of the popular applications include nephrostomy models and bronchoscopy models for fluoroscopy procedures.
Canada metal and Toronto metal powder manufacturer
Here at TMetal we take pride in being Canada’s leading supplier of metal powder for additive manufacturing. We believe in the future of additive manufacturing, and we are leaving no stone unturned to help our clients in bringing their novel 3d printing ideas to life.
We deliver our Toronto metal powders across Canada. Get in touch with us today for more information.
