The medical device industry is witnessing a transformative shift with the widespread adoption of 3D printing technologies. Innovative applications, strategic deals, and a surge in job postings reflect the industry’s commitment to leveraging 3D printing for precision, customization, and enhanced patient outcomes. However, the impact of 3D printing extends beyond the medical device sector, influencing various industries. GlobalData’s 3D printing market report provides comprehensive analysis of the 3D printing market. Buy the report here.

This article presents a quarterly round-up of the latest trends in the medical device industry regarding 3D printing. It provides an overview of recent developments in 3dDhprinting-related deals, talent acquisition, and patent filings within the medical device industry.

Diverse applications of 3D printing in medical device industry

Medical companies are leveraging the latest 3D printing technologies to innovate and improve their businesses. Recent patents reveal advancements in integrated vascular delivery systems, tendon routing systems for restorative forces, implant fusion devices, resorbable implants for hernia repair and breast reconstruction, and patient-specific cranioplasty implants. These technologies offer precise and customized solutions for medical procedures, such as orthopedic and spinal implants, cardiac rhythm management devices, and cranial implants. By acquiring these patents, medical companies can enhance their product offerings, improve patient outcomes, and streamline manufacturing processes. The use of 3D printing in the medical field continues to revolutionize healthcare by providing tailored solutions for complex medical conditions.

The industry experienced a 21% decline in the number of 3D printing-related patent applications in Q4 2023 compared with the previous quarter. On an annual basis, the number of 3D printing-related patent applications in the medical device industry witnessed a drop of 4% compared with Q4 2022.

Strategic deal trends in 3D printing in medical device industry

Medical Device companies are not only focusing on innovation to enhance their patent portfolios but are also making strategic investments in 3D printing. These investments aim to secure lucrative deals with partners and position themselves at the forefront of industry advancements. Some of the recent deals underscore the importance of 3D printing in the medical device industry.

In Q4 2023, the number of 3D printing-related deals in the medical device industry declined by 38% compared with Q4 2022. On a quarterly basis, there was 67% increase in the number of deals in Q4 2023 compared with the previous quarter.

Impact on hiring

In terms of new job posting, in Q4 2023, the medical device industry experienced a 40% growth compared with the previous quarter. On an annual basis, job postings also grew by 44%. Notably, management occupations, with a share of 24%, emerged as the top 3D printing-related job roles within the medical device industry in Q4 2023, with new job postings rising by 194% quarter-on-quarter. Architecture and engineering occupations came in second with a share of 18% in Q4 2023, with new job postings dropping by 34% over the previous quarter. The other prominent 3D printing roles include computer and mathematical occupations with an 18% share in Q4 2023, and business and financial operations occupations with a 5% share of new job postings.

Align Technology, Materialise, Stryker, Envista, and Medtronic are among the top companies leading in 3D printing hiring within the medical device industry.

Countries driving adoption of 3D printing in medical device industry

The US is the leading country in 3D printing adoption within the medical device industry, boasting the highest number of 3D printing-related patents, jobs, and deals. Meanwhile, China, the UK, Germany and Vietnam also maintain significant positions in 3D printing adoption within the medical device industry.

In conclusion, the dynamic landscape of 3D printing in the medical device industry, marked by innovative applications, strategic deals, and substantial job growth, underscores its pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare, with the US leading the way in adoption and advancements.

To further understand GlobalData's analysis on 3D printing in the medical device industry, buy the report here.

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GlobalData, the leading provider of industry intelligence, provided the underlying data, research, and analysis used to produce this article.

GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.