3D printing technology acquired from the Universities of Michigan and Wisconsin will be utilized to reconstruct missing bones
The acquired 3D printing technology will be utilized to create implants to treat orthopedic and craniomaxillofacial deformities.
New technologies acquired by Johnson & Johnson (London, UK) will be used to create bioabsorbable implants to regenerate bones. The technology, developed by Tissue Regeneration Systems (MI, USA), was acquired by the DePuy Synthes arm of Johnson & Johnson. Tissue Regeneration Systems is involved with commercialization research at the University of Michigan (MI, USA) and the University of Wisconsin (WI, USA) into devices for reconstructing skeletons and healing bones.
The technology utilizes data from CT scans that strategically map the exact geometry and dimensions of the missing bone section which is then directed to a 3D printer to generate the synthetic bone. Surgeons have the option to alter the bone structure during the course of operation.
The synthetic bone is then coated with a “plate-like nanostructure that resembles living bone”. The mineral coating enhances the healing process to provide a surface to which biological components can interact.
The technology’s main application is craniomaxillofacial surgery. Often, surgeons take bones from other distinct sites of the patient’s body to utilize in mouth, jaw, face and skull reconstruction. This technology aims to avoid harvesting bone grafts and midoperation modifications by creating a personalized device.
Ciro Römer, group chairman at DePuy Synthes, explained “We are systematically investing in building a pipeline of 3D printed products. This technology, which will be added to the DePuy Synthes Trauma Platform, is the latest example of how we are working toward developing next-generation technologies that transform healthcare delivery with individualized solutions for patients.”
