The interface between engineering and medicine has been expanding in recent decades - universities are now offering dedicated bio-engineering degrees. One particular application of modern engineering in medicine is the use of polymers as implants in order to aid in the healing process or replace damaged tissue.
Cranial Implants
Head injuries can be life-changing in a way that few other injuries can. Treatment can involve implantation of a skulls prosthesis, which is quite understandably a very delicate procedure requiring the utmost care and attention. However, it is also critical to select appropriate materials, for purposes of production and bio-compatibility. This is where plastics are proving to be extremely useful. In a recent research project, a team of dedicated professionals has created a process for manufacturing bespoke cranial implants with precision, speed and at minimal cost. The patient is taken for an MRI scan and the results are converted by a computer into a 3D model. Using a 3D production method like laser sintering, the implant is then generated. The whole process could take out a great deal of time and complexity involved in the surgical procedure.
Tracheal implants
Similar bio-technology is being used in throat repair. The Trachea is a long tube that connects the lungs to the mouth. When it becomes damaged, it can be very difficult to repair, and implanted materials can cause problems for the patient’s immune system. But using a 3D printed scaffold seeded with the patient’s own stem cells, an implant can be devised that is 100% compatible with the patient’s body. This technology is very transferable into many structures in the body, as the basic manufacturing technique is very flexible and the patient’s own cells are integrated into the implant. The bio-compatibility of the polymer structure ensures that the body integrates the implant, rather than rejecting it
.
However, implantation of any foreign device is a risky procedure, and the doctors and engineers responsible need to be 100% certain of success before engaging in a procedure. Implants should be thoroughly tested on a quality basis in order to prevent deployment of deficient products.
With a combination of Tensile, Compressive, Fatigue and Impact machines (among many others), we have a slew of solutions for a variety of bio-mechanical tests. In particular, we have a well-established history in stent testing and experience with a number of other bio-medical applications. We also have a unique environmental control unit for testing at 37 degrees.
Why not contact us to find out about the testing capabilities that we can offer?
Cranial Implants
Head injuries can be life-changing in a way that few other injuries can. Treatment can involve implantation of a skulls prosthesis, which is quite understandably a very delicate procedure requiring the utmost care and attention. However, it is also critical to select appropriate materials, for purposes of production and bio-compatibility. This is where plastics are proving to be extremely useful. In a recent research project, a team of dedicated professionals has created a process for manufacturing bespoke cranial implants with precision, speed and at minimal cost. The patient is taken for an MRI scan and the results are converted by a computer into a 3D model. Using a 3D production method like laser sintering, the implant is then generated. The whole process could take out a great deal of time and complexity involved in the surgical procedure.
Tracheal implants
Similar bio-technology is being used in throat repair. The Trachea is a long tube that connects the lungs to the mouth. When it becomes damaged, it can be very difficult to repair, and implanted materials can cause problems for the patient’s immune system. But using a 3D printed scaffold seeded with the patient’s own stem cells, an implant can be devised that is 100% compatible with the patient’s body. This technology is very transferable into many structures in the body, as the basic manufacturing technique is very flexible and the patient’s own cells are integrated into the implant. The bio-compatibility of the polymer structure ensures that the body integrates the implant, rather than rejecting it
.
However, implantation of any foreign device is a risky procedure, and the doctors and engineers responsible need to be 100% certain of success before engaging in a procedure. Implants should be thoroughly tested on a quality basis in order to prevent deployment of deficient products.
With a combination of Tensile, Compressive, Fatigue and Impact machines (among many others), we have a slew of solutions for a variety of bio-mechanical tests. In particular, we have a well-established history in stent testing and experience with a number of other bio-medical applications. We also have a unique environmental control unit for testing at 37 degrees.
Why not contact us to find out about the testing capabilities that we can offer?
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