Here are five key notes:
1. The printed vertebrae were 19 centimeters, the longest-ever 3-D printed vertebrae used in a successful operation. Surgeons implanted the 3-D printed vertebrae into a patient’s spine who previously underwent surgery to remove a tumor and posterior sections of five vertebrae.
2. The replica vertebrae was made from titanium powder and inserted into the spine to fill the void left from the previous tumor removal surgery.
3. Surgeons performed the six-hour procedure at Peking University Third Hospital in June. The patient can currently walk on his own post-operation; his physicians said he’d likely have been paralyzed without the operation.
4. The 3-D technology allows surgeons to create a replica of the patient’s original vertebrae in size, shape and firmness. The implant as pores for neighboring bone cells to enhance fusion.
5. The technology is still experimental and only two 3-D printed body implants are registered with the China FDA.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.