3D Printing in Healthcare: A New Frontier at UW-Stout
The University of Wisconsin–Stout (UW-Stout) is leading groundbreaking research in 3D printing for healthcare, developing custom solutions that could redefine the future of medicine. By combining industrial-scale 3D printers with biomedical expertise, the university is making personalized medical devices, prosthetics, and surgical models more accessible than ever before.
Personalized Medicine Through 3D Printing
Dean Dan Freedman highlights why 3D printing excels in healthcare:
“If you’re printing anything for a person, it’s going to be different for just about everybody. And that’s where 3D printing really shines.”
In fact, Freedman’s office houses a 3D-printed replica of his shoulder, created from MRI data. This detailed model allows surgeons to practice procedures before operating, reducing risk and improving outcomes.
Building One of the Nation’s Most Advanced 3D Printing Labs
To accelerate innovation, UW-Stout has invested in five new industrial 3D printers, adding to its existing fleet of 15 desktop systems. This growing lab is designed not just for research, but also as a resource for:
- Students: Hands-on training in biomedical engineering and manufacturing.
- Businesses: Affordable access to custom 3D printing without major upfront costs.
- Researchers: Prototyping patient-specific devices, implants, and surgical tools.
Industry Collaboration and Accessibility
Biomedical engineer Dr. Anne Schmitz emphasizes the importance of making high-end 3D printing accessible:
“By having a center, we can do one widget for you, another widget for ‘Company B.’ We’re bringing in enough projects to make that financially feasible and accessible.”
This means that local businesses and healthcare providers can prototype medical tools or prosthetics at UW-Stout’s center—without investing millions in their own equipment.
Future Applications of 3D Printing in Healthcare
UW-Stout’s research opens doors for several life-changing applications, including:
- Customized prosthetics and implants tailored to individual patients
- 3D-printed surgical models for pre-operation planning
- Medical device prototyping for faster innovation cycles
- Integration with AI for smarter, more precise healthcare solutions
Why UW-Stout’s 3D Printing Research Matters
With its blend of technology, education, and accessibility, UW-Stout is positioning itself as a national leader in medical 3D printing research. The initiative promises to make healthcare more personalized, affordable, and effective—benefiting patients, doctors, and businesses alike.
Final Thoughts
The future of healthcare lies in customization and innovation, and UW-Stout’s 3D printing lab is proving how these two can work together. From prosthetics for patients to new opportunities for businesses and students, the university’s work shows that 3D printing isn’t just a tool—it’s a healthcare revolution in the making.