The Carbon Footprint of the Craniomaxillofacial Surgeon: A Single Center Analysis of 3D-Printed Constructs

Abstract

Introduction: Three-dimensional (3D) printing plays an expansive role in craniofacial surgical planning and implementation. To better understand when the benefits of this technology outweigh its environmental costs, a focused exploration of the environmental impact of 3D printing is warranted to quantify carbon emissions attributable to craniofacial surgical constructs. Methods: All invoice data from commercial vendors used at Johns Hopkins Hospital for the 2-year period from January 2020 to December 2021 were reviewed. Information on the material composition of each construct was recorded. Additionally, a total of 19 commercial printers were included. Conversion factors from the U.S. EIA were used to calculate the carbon emissions generated by the fuel consumption of each printer per hour. Results: Invoice data revealed 406 patient-specific constructs (158 contour models, 104 guides, 84 implants, and 60 splints). A total of 2644.4 printer hours and 36.1 MW of power were needed to manufacture all constructs. This is equivalent to releasing 15.71 metric tons of carbon emissions, corresponding to the emissions produced by burning 7882.1 kg of coal or 36.4 barrels of oil. Conclusion: 3D printing is a resource-intensive practice in CMF surgery. Therefore, when weighing patient benefits against environmental detriment, CMF surgeons must determine indications where 3D printing is unessential. Restricting prints to the anatomy of interest, minimizing support structures, and reusing printed constructs may all help to lessen the environmental impact of this growing practice.