3D-printed implant replaces 75 percent of patient's skull

The OsteoFab cranial device is custom-fitted to each patient. / Oxford Performance Materials

Doctors have already replaced a patient's jaw with a 3D-printed titanium implant, so why not part of a skull? Earlier this week, 75 percent of an American patient's skull was surgically replaced with a custom-made implant produced by a 3D printer from Oxford Performance Materials.

The full name of the implant is the OsteoFab Patient Specific Cranial Device. The implant is made from PEKK biomedical polymer and printed using CAD files developed to fit each person. The world of skulls is not one-size-fits-all. Much like an expensive pair of bespoke shoes, these skull implants are unique to the individual.

"It is our firm belief that the combination of PEKK and Additive Manufacturing (our OsteoFab technology) is a highly transformative and disruptive technology platform that will substantially impact all sectors of the orthopedic industry," said Scott DeFelice, President and CEO of Oxford Performance Materials.

The company is starting with skulls, but plans to move through the body, creating more implant options. The skull success could be just a precursor to other bones like femurs, knee caps, and hips.

The PEKK polymer has the big advantage of being biomechanically similar to bone. The skull implant was just approved by the FDA last month.

The patient's name and type of injury hasn't been released, but the implant signals a big step forward for the use of 3D-printed materials in medical situations.

The skull is just the beginning for this 3D printing method.

/ Oxford Performance Materials

This article originally appeared on CNET.

[CuriousServant]

This also provides opportunities for space travel. Not only might future astronauts be able to create biomedical replacements, but replacement parts for equipment as well.

We might be able to someday expand throughout the solar system, and not rely on taking everything with us.

[josephroger]

While it is wonderful to read about the process of making parts for medical procedures with 3D printing.I can't help thinking of the broader implications of 3D printing for large scale manufacturing. How many jobs will be lost.Who will lose their medical insurance.Who will pay for unemployment insurance.Will those making millions cry about entitlements all these lechers are collecting from the government. JRH

[RBP917]

It is good to see the engineers, computer scientist and doctors working together on a goal, such collaboration is inspiring.