To help Oreo, OIC obtained a donated patella that was used to generate a scaled digitized copy. A biomedical engineer then converted the file into a computer-aided design (CAD) model. X-ray radiographs of Oreo’s other patella were then used to modify the CAD design to match his femur.
“In Oreo’s case, we were able to produce a custom-tailored implant in only four days including design, analysis, physical testing, and manufacturing. As we move down the learning curve, it will probably be possible to produce similar implants in only a day or two.”
OIC built an artificial patella using FDM® technology, an additive manufacturing process that builds plastic parts layer-by-layer from CAD files, on its Stratasys® 3D printer using PC-ISO™ biocompatible polycarbonate (ISO 10993 USP Class VI). Physical testing was performed on the implant to validate its ability to provide the necessary mechanical strength. The implant was sterilised using ethylene oxide at 54°C (130°F) for one hour. During Oreo’s surgery, the implant was attached to the tendon and quadriceps using polypropylene sutures.
Oreo recovered without incident, and eight weeks after his surgery, he had regained complete function of his leg with a full range of motion and weight- bearing capacity. His owner reported that he could once again go on long walks and jump using both of his limbs. Now, more than three years later, Oreo continues to enjoy an active lifestyle without complications thanks to his 3D printed implant.
“FDM is an ideal technology for implant manufacturing because it is capable of producing strong, durable, biocompatible parts with the right physical properties,” said Martin Petrak, president of Orthopaedic Innovation Centre.
“With FDM, we can tailor the implant to perfectly match the recipient’s anatomy which has the potential to provide dramatic improvements in functionality and recovery time.”
