Artificial joints will print on a 3D printer

The latest achievements of 3D printing in medicine associated with the joint replacement. Around the world people are suffering from the symptoms of arthritis and joint pain, so the question is becoming increasingly important.





Usually artificial joints made of plastic and metal, materials that the human body considers foreign. In addition, these materials fail after 10-20 years after the surgery, and the joint is once again losing its functionality.

Doctors Rita Kandel, Marc Grinpas and András Naked from the Research Institute Samuel Lunenfeld at the medical center of mount Sinai has teamed up with bioengineers, biologists and surgeons to study the issue. With the increasing interest in Dr. Kandel began working with the doctors and Pillara Toyserkani from the universities of Toronto and Waterloo to find out whether 3D printing is becoming a tool to create joints.

New technology could change the perception about a long-term problem. The 3D printing process begins with x-rays of the damaged joint of the patient. The received data is converted into three-dimensional computer model, which is immediately sent to the printer. 3D printer grows an exact copy of a joint of special porous material. This material promotes cell growth and is easily overgrown cartilage tissue. The bone gradually takes shape, and the material collapses. This leaves only the bone, which is no different from the original.

This method still requires numerous studies and experiments. But it is possible that this technology will soon be embedded in conventional medical practice.

Source: greenevolution.ru