3D printing and stem cells used in groundbreaking hip surgery

UK scientists have used 3D printing technology and stem cell innovations to approach hip implant surgery in a new way.

The University of Southampton has developed a translational research programme to drive bone formation using patient skeletal stem cells in orthopaedics, to be used in tandem with 3D-printed hips made from titanium.

Produced using a combination of CT scans and computer-aided design and manufacturing technology, these implants can be designed to the patient's exact specifications and measurements.

An initial implant operation using this technology recently took place at Southampton General Hospital, with the patient in question benefiting from a better-fitting, more durable hip.

Professor Richard Oreffo of the University of Southampton said: "The 3D printing of the implant in titanium, from CT scans of the patient and stem cell graft, is cutting-edge and offers the possibility of improved outcomes for patients."

From April 2011 to April 2012, the NHS performed just over 70,000 hip replacements in England. These operations are usually carried out among patients affected by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and hip fractures.