Additive Manufacturing: Creating the Next Generation of Orthopedic Implants

Additive Manufacturing (AM) is an exciting technology being explored for use in the medical device landscape. From improved patient outcomes to point-of-care manufacturing, 3D printing offers a host of benefits that promise to transform the orthopedic implant industry once fully implemented. For medical companies to leverage this novel manufacturing technology, extensive materials testing will be needed in order to validate new processes and prove that their products are functionally comparable (or superior to) those made with traditional processes. Adding to the complexity, this application currently exists in a dynamic regulatory environment where the industry is still debating best practices. Companies seeking to explore this space will need to implement a highly adaptable materials testing program in order to realize the full potential of additively manufactured orthopedic implants.