Discovering new 3D bioprinting applications: Analyzing the case of optical tissue phantoms

Abstract

Optical tissue phantoms enable to mimic the optical properties of biological tissues for biomedical device calibration, new equipment validation, and clinical training for the detection, and treatment of diseases. Unfortunately, current methods for their development present some problems, such as a lack of repeatability in their optical properties. Where the use of three-dimensional (3D) printing or 3D bioprinting could address these issues. This paper aims to evaluate the use of this technology in the development of optical tissue phantoms. A competitive technology intelligence methodology was applied by analyzing Scopus, Web of Science, and patents from January 1, 2000, to July 31, 2018. The main trends regarding methods, materials, and uses, as well as predominant countries, institutions, and journals, were determined. The results revealed that, while 3D printing is already employed (in total, 108 scientific papers and 18 patent families were identified), 3D bioprinting is not yet applied for optical tissue phantoms. Nevertheless, it is expected to have significant growth. This research gives biomedical scientists a new window of opportunity for exploring the use of 3D bioprinting in a new area that may support testing of new equipment and development of techniques for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

Keywords: additive manufacturing; biophotonics; competitive technology intelligence; patentometrics; scientometrics.

Figure 1

Summary of published papers on 3D printed optical tissue phantoms, which are indexed in both Scopus and Web of Science databases, grouped by (A) publication year, (B) affiliation country, (C) institution of principal author, and (D) journal in which the paper is published. In B-D, only the 10 most frequent papers are shown. Note: National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Figure 2

Association map showing the top authors, keywords, and journals or conference proceedings. Keywords are grouped relating to phantoms, methods, optical properties, and applications.

Figure 3

Summary of published patents on 3D printed optical tissue phantoms from January 1, 2000, to July 31, 2018, grouped by (A) the number of patent families published and (B) priority countries.