Here are seven key developments in 3D printing for spine and orthopedics.
Spine surgeon Steven Garfin, MD, joined the board of directors at 3D printing company PrinterPrezz. Dr. Garfin is interim dean at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine and focuses on developing surgical techniques and instrumentation to treat spinal disorders, as well as training orthopedic and spine surgeons.
Thinking Robot Studios, a Nova Scotia, Canada-based 3D printing company, is planning to open a $84 million manufacturing plant in Buffalo, N.Y. Thinking Robot Studios develops orthopedic implants and devices for bone and joint reconstruction. The plant will create over 88 jobs, each with an average compensation and benefits of over $130,000.
DePuy Synthes launched its new Conduit Interbody Platform at the North American Spine Society meeting, Sept. 25 to 28 in Chicago. Surgeons can use the platform to treat degenerative spinal diseases. The platform features 3D-printed implants for spinal fusion surgery.
Fort Wayne, Ala.-based DeKalb Orthopedics & Sports Medicine recently partnered with biomedical startup ActivArmorTM in an initiative that will bring the company's 3D-printed casts and splints to the practice. The 3D-printed casts are customized to fit each patient using a 3D body scan.
Orthopedic surgeons Amiethab Aiyer, MD, and Stephen Quinnan, MD, recently performed an ankle replacement with a 3D-printed talus bone at the University of Miami (Fla.) Miller School of Medicine. The patient was fitted with a 3D-printed cobalt chrome implant, which is often used in hip replacements and presents a more durable solution for the load-bearing ankle.
NuVasive launched Modulus Cervical, a porous titanium interbody implant for cervical spine applications. Modulus Cervical expands NuVasive's portfolio to include porous PEEK and porous titanium products for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion techniques. The device fuses the benefits of porosity with the material properties of titanium.
Orthopedic device company MedShape launched its DynaNail Mini platform for subtalar fusion. DynaNail Mini features MedShape's nickel titanium technology and provides maintained active compression post-surgery to promote healing and joint stability.
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