Can 3D Printing Revolutionize Orthopaedic Devices?

S. Raymond Golish, MD, PhD, MBA; Steven M. Kurtz, PhD; Barbara D. Boyan, PhD

3D printing promises to be a revolution in orthopaedic device manufacturing. In 3D printing, parts are built up layer-by-layer by adding to a workpiece using a variety of materials and energy sources. 3D printing is more technically called additive manufacturing (AM) to distinguish it from traditional machining, which “subtracts” material from a solid billet or from a rough part that was cast or forged.

Will Biologic Treatments for Cartilage Restoration Become the Standard of Care?

Rivka C. Ihejirika, MD

Prevention of degenerative joint disease and the restoration of articular cartilage through minimally invasive means is a major focus of basic science and orthopaedic sports research. That research has led to advances in technology that enable the long-term storage of cartilage and the replication of “chondroinductive” cells, resulting in cartilage restoration procedures that may potentially set a new standard of care in orthopaedic clinical practice.

Orthopaedic Surgeons Play Key Role in Device Recalls

Patrick Maher, MD; Chatón T. Turner, Esq.; Kenneth L. Urish, MD, PhD; the AAOS Biomedical Engineering Committee

Orthopaedic surgeons are in a unique position to discover possible issues with orthopaedic devices. Accordingly, the surgeon’s role in ensuring the quality of those devices cannot be overstated. This responsibility requires surgeons to report device failures to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and to understand the hospital’s role in reporting as well. Recent innovations in arthroplasty have resulted in many positive advances for patients.