New 3D printable ink ‘can aid production of synthetic bone implants’

A new 3D printable ink has been developed by US engineers that could be used to produce customised synthetic bone implants.

The Northwestern Engineering research team have produced a biomaterial that combines hydroxyapatite, a calcium mineral found naturally in human bone, and a biocompatible, biodegradable polymer used in many medical applications, including sutures.

This hyperelastic material has already shown great promise in tests using in vivo animal models and can rapidly induce bone regeneration and growth, as well as being robust and porous at the nano, micro and macro levels.

Its shape can be easily customised to exactly fit the specifications of the individual patient, while it is also possible to incorporate other elements, such as antibiotics, into the ink.

In particular, this material could be useful in the treatment of bone defects in children, as metallic implants are not considered to be an ideal option for young patients who are still growing.

Study leader Ramille Shah said: "The turnaround time for an implant that's specialised for a customer could be within 24 hours. That could change the world of craniofacial and orthopaedic surgery and, I hope, will improve patient outcomes."

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