The new medical implant generation is approaching

2009-03-05 - The meeting main objective is to review the first results derived from this project, placing special attention in the realization of the first prototypes validating the technology material combinations in all the three lines of investigation: cranial implants, spinal implants and dental restoration. All of these customized implants are based on innovative materials fabricated by rapid manufacturing techniques that will allow innovative designs and in patient applications in a maximum time span of 48 hours to be accomplished. To give an example, the feasibility of rapid manufacturing technologies application in the design and production of complex medical implants has been already verified in the case of cranial implants using the EBM technique. Custom IMD is also developing alternative rapid manufacturing techniques based in new materials. Furthermore, apart from the studies oriented at the implant customization, the project members are also working towards the optimization of processes that will guarantee this agile service. In this sense PLASTIA is collaborating in the development of and specific online tool to support the design activities and of and electronic communication platform that links all the stages in the provision chain.