Across pediatric, adult, and geriatric cases, Vietnam’s Vinmec Healthcare System’s implementation of 3D printing solutions has significantly transformed patient outcomes, replacing disability with mobility and independence.
One remarkable example involves Tran Minh Duc, an eight-year-old whose case rewrote global pediatric oncology history. According to medical literature from the U.S. National Library of Medicine, no previous documented cases involved fully 3D-printed or patient-specific femoral implants in pediatric applications. Thus, Duc became the youngest patient globally to receive a fully 3D-printed, growth-adaptive titanium femur.
“The surgery represented a breakthrough in complex techniques and was a testament to strong collaboration within the multidisciplinary medical team,” stated Prof. Dr. Tran Trung Dung, Director of the Orthopedic Council at Vinmec Healthcare System.
Redefining Mobility for Young Adults
Vinmec’s approach also positively impacts young adults facing critical prognoses. Twenty-five-year-old Vu Dinh Tuy suffered extensive damage from bone cancer to his proximal femur and pelvis. Conventional surgery meant permanent loss of mobility. However, using advanced 3D imaging techniques, Vinmec’s sarcoma specialists and engineers crafted a personalized titanium implant. Unlike traditional procedures that remove entire joint systems, this method preserved vital tendons and load-bearing structures, enabling Tuy to walk just two days post-surgery.
Precision for Middle-Aged Patients
The patient-specific methodology showed equally transformative outcomes for middle-aged individuals. Forty-eight-year-old Do Phuc Hoan suffered lifelong pain due to developmental dysplasia of the hip (Crowe type IV). After years confined to a wheelchair and multiple rejections from other hospitals, he found hope at Vinmec. Through a series of meticulously planned procedures, culminating in the implantation of a custom 3D-printed hip prosthesis matching his anatomy with 98% accuracy, Hoan regained mobility within a week.
Vietnam’s Healthcare Sector Embraces 3D Printing
Vinmec leads Vietnam in applying personalized 3D printing technology for musculoskeletal disorders. Rather than relying on standardized devices, customized solutions based on CT and MRI imaging optimize joint function, enhance precision, and shorten recovery times.
This advancement reflects broader momentum within Vietnam’s healthcare sector. The nation’s 3D-printed medical device market reached USD 45.6 million in 2024 and is projected to hit USD 142.8 million by 2034, representing a robust CAGR of approximately 12%, as reported by Expert Market Research.
Supporting this growth, the newly established Vietnam 3D Technology in Medicine Association unites clinicians, engineers, and technology enterprises to advance precision medicine.
“The establishment of the Association is essential to connecting resources and building a thriving ecosystem for 3D technology development in Vietnam’s healthcare sector,” Prof. Dr. Tran Trung Dung said.
Future Collaborations and Industry Development
To accelerate Vietnam’s 3D printing industry, Dr. Huan Dau, CEO of Vinnotek—one of Vietnam’s leading metal 3D printing firms—announced plans for joint ventures aimed at regional material sourcing.
“This approach will help reduce lead times and improve cost efficiency,” Dr. Dau remarked. Acknowledging future challenges, he emphasized that producing high-quality materials will require time and collaboration. “Companies should work together with scientists and organizations like the Vietnam 3D Technology in Medicine Association to make it happen,” he added.
Global Recognition and Local Impact
Vinmec Times City International Hospital advanced Vietnam’s global healthcare reputation by joining Cleveland Clinic Connected, becoming only the second hospital worldwide to enter this prestigious network. Locally, 3D printing technology has become commonplace, enabling customized implants and surgical models for bone restoration after cancer, trauma, or congenital defects, significantly reducing costs compared to imported solutions.
Through sustained innovation in medicine and advancements in 3D-assisted surgery, Vinmec is not only elevating healthcare standards domestically but also enhancing Vietnam’s position globally.
