3D printing which is also known as additive manufacturing is one of the most useful technologies of this era. Its benefits are being readily embraced with real-life applications being developed almost every day. 3D printing finds application in the medical industry as well. It is used extensively to manufacture 3D implants. Metal 3D printing overcomes many of the limitations of traditional manufacturing methods. This can open up new possibilities for production of complex structures and also mass customization of parts which will be available at affordable prices. This blog will discuss the 5 most used 3D printed implants.
- Mandibular implants:
Mandibular implants help in replacing the present bone defect. They provide the exact anatomy and aesthetics along with all useful functions. These implants have the capacity to strengthen the jawline. Such implants are used mostly by surgeons for the patients with a deficient or surgically altered anatomy but can also be used by someone with normal anatomy to enhance the facial silhouette.
- Cranial implants:
Cranial reconstruction can be required to restore the skull contour. It is also helpful in protecting the intracranial structures and also in normalizing cerebral hemodynamics. 3D printed patient-specific cranial implants help in providing the exact symmetry. Along with this, the original aesthetics are also maintained. Apart from this, customized 3D metal printed implants give strong and stable protection which is always better than any available implants. Traditional methods of producing implants may lead to results which could be aesthetically unsatisfying. And hence, it is advisable to opt for 3D printed implants.
- Orbit Reconstruction implants:
Orbit reconstruction has been considered as quite a complex procedure since orbit anatomy is very complex, surrounded by vital organs like the brain, eyes, sinus cavities, etc. 3D metal printed customized implants help surgeons to reconstruct deformities close to its original anatomy to give excellent relief.
- Hip implants:
Patient-specific 3D printed implants are also widely used to replace deformities in the hip region. 3D printing has revolutionized hip replacement surgeries. These implants help in replacing the bone lost to conditions like osteoporosis, bone cancer or injury. The patient’s medical scans are used to design an accurate preoperative 3D plan which includes a detailed outline of the procedure. It also gives an overview of the screw positioning and lengths.
- Vertebra implants:
For a patient suffering from something like ankylosing spondylitis which is serious arthritis that causes inflammation of the vertebrae, 3D printed implants could be the best possible solution. Such conditions may cause the patient to lose mobility, making everyday activities very difficult. Patient-specific 3D printed implants can help replace the damaged vertebrae. These innovatively designed 3D printed spine implants have various lattice structures which help faster bone growth through a scaffold-like structure and faster osteointegration.
Metal 3D printing or additive manufacturing has indeed revolutionized the medical industry. 3D incredible with its passion for helping people is one of the top manufacturers of all kinds of patient-specific 3D printed implants in India.
