Cancer patient successfully implanted with 3D-printed ribs

3D printing technology has been utilised to provide a Spanish chest wall sarcoma patient with a titanium sternum and rib implant.

Medical device company Anatomics created the implant with the assistance of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation in Australia, with high-resolution computed tomography data taken from the patient.

The team was able to create a 3D reconstruction of the chest wall and tumour, allowing the surgeons to plan and accurately define resection margins. The implant had a rigid sternal core and semi-flexible titanium rods acting as prosthetic ribs attached to the sternum.

Dr Jose Aranda from Salamanca University Hospital said: "Thanks to 3D printing technology and a unique resection template, we were able to create a body part that was fully customised and fitted like a glove."

Thanks to the ability to create a tailored solution, the researchers were able to replicate the intricate structures of the sternum and ribs, making it a safer option for the 54-year-old patient. The technology also made rapid prototyping possible.