Joint repair with minimal surgery

Votes: 0
Views: 3073
Medical

Using current imaging technology, get measurements of the cartilage space in the joint. Then with a 3 D printer, print the replacement cartilage our of ultrahigh molecular polyethylene (or similar wear resistant polymer). After printing the replacement cartilage, insert it in the joint and fuse to the bone with laser.

This should be able to be done with a small incision and not injuring the ligaments/tendons around the joint.

As 3D printers evolve to allowing printing of various alloys of metals, metal replacement cartilage could become the standard for wear resistance and durability.

This would save major surgery for replacement implants as used today.

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  • ABOUT THE ENTRANT

  • Name:
    Marvin Christensen
  • Type of entry:
    individual
  • Profession:
    Business Owner/Manager
  • Number of times previously entering contest:
    2
  • Marvin is inspired by:
    Seeing so many friends and family struggling with knee and hip replacement implants. Most are successful, but a few have serious problems. Minimizing the trauma to the joint should help minimize the problems after surgery.
  • Software used for this entry:
    Not simulated at this stage.
  • Patent status:
    none