Worldwide research on 3D printing for cancer: a dual-method analysis of bibliometrics and stratified focused thematic.

AIM

This study investigates the application of three-dimensional (3D) printing in cancer research and treatment, highlighting the current advancements, key areas of interest, and emerging trends in the field.

METHODS

Literature records and cited references were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database and analyzed using Excel 2019, Bibliometrix, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace. Based on the scientometric results, a stratified and focused thematic analysis was performed by cancer type to enhance clinical relevance and investigate tumor-specific applications.

RESULTS

A total of 2,312 publications on 3D printing in cancer were identified, with the earliest published in 2006. Publications originated from 2,740 institutions across 82 countries, with China leading the field with 779 articles. Sichuan University was the most prolific institution, publishing 75 articles. Frontiers in Oncology had the highest number of publications with 49 publications, while Biomaterials was the most frequently cited journal with 3,354 citations. Contributions to the field have been made by 13,066 contributing authors, with Tu Chongqi having 39 publications being the most productive. Key research areas focus on utilizing 3D printing for preoperative planning and patient education in tumor surgery, treating malignant bone tumors, advancing tumor radiotherapy, constructing in vitro tumor cell models, and expanding 3D bioprinting applications in cancer therapy. Future directions may include developments in limb-salvage and prosthetic reconstruction, the use of 3D bioprinting tumor microenvironment (TME) models to investigate antitumor mechanisms, and applications of 3D printing in cancer drug resistance. Among the most frequently studied tumor types, research on malignant bone tumors has primarily focused on reconstruction and tissue regeneration. In breast cancer, key areas include surgical planning, radiotherapy bolus design, tumor microenvironment modeling, and drug delivery. Lung cancer studies have emphasized surgical simulation, imaging phantoms, and bioprinted tumor models, while cervical cancer research has concentrated on customized brachytherapy applicators and preclinical bioprinting platforms. Additional insights on liver, prostate, head and neck, colorectal cancers, and glioblastoma are provided in the supplementary tables to support targeted research efforts.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the global applications of 3D printing in cancer research from 2000 to 2024, analyzing contributions from various countries, institutions, authors, and journals, as well as key topics, keywords, and references. By incorporating cancer-type-specific thematic analysis, the study not only identifies global research patterns and hotspots but also delineates the translational progress and unmet clinical needs across major tumor types. The findings highlight current research hotspots and emerging trends, offering valuable insights for future advancements in the field.