Jeph Ruppert of 3D Systems discusses how two-laser systems increase throughput and make additive manufacturing an option for more orthopedic applications.
Device manufacturers typically leverage Direct Metal Printing (DMP) to produce orthopedic implants (e.g., interbody fusion devices, arthroplasty implants, etc.) and instrumentation (e.g., surgical guides). However, it has not been a cost-effective option for primary acetabular cups due to higher processing costs compared to traditional casting, milling, and porous plasma spray—until now. Multi-laser DMP printers make the process of producing large volumes of orthopedic devices faster and less expensive. When you combine accelerated throughput with the ability to create complex porous scaffolds and surface lattice that increase bone in-growth, manufacturing primary large joint arthroplasty implants with 3D printing is now a viable option.
Sharing data insights from a comparative analysis on acetabular cups printed on dual and single-laser metal 3D printers is Jeph Ruppert, director of Applications Innovation Group at 3D Systems. He explores how recent innovations expand the scope of medical device additive manufacturing in this brief video interview.
