Table 7.

Comparison between conventional and rapid prototyping techniques for scaffold fabrication.

Functionality	Conventional Techniques	Rapid Prototyping Techniques	Reference
Scaffold development time & computer aid	Relatively slow without computer aid	Rapid preparation with computer-aided development	[152]
Manpower or technicians requirements	Require technicians and more manpower needed	Minimize manpower due to computer-controlled fabrication	[147]
Scaffold homogeneity	Not able to develop homogeneous structures	Homogeneous structures can be easily developed	[153]
Control the internal microstructure of scaffolds	Difficult or able to control the internal structures	The internal structures can be easily controlled	[154]
Scaffold porosity	Irregular pores shape and insufficient interconnectivity	Regular and interconnected pores	[155]
Effects on scaffold cytotoxicity	More effect on cells due to solvent residue	Less effect on cells, no solvent residue	[153]
Ability to design accurate & desirable shapes	Difficult to prepare the desirable shape	Easy to prepare even complex shapes	[156]
Cost of production	High cost of production	Low cost of production	[141]