iCAT 2026 PLENARY SPEAKERS

Patient-specific, additively manufactured acetabular implants are increasingly used for massive acetabular bone loss and pelvic discontinuity. Systematic reviews report that custom components are retained in ~94% of cases at a mean 7-year follow-up, and short- to early mid-term reviews report ~97.7% survivorship at ~23 months; dislocation and periprosthetic joint infection remain the dominant causes of re-revision, while sciatic nerve palsy is reported in approximately 2% of cases. Case: A female patient with severe developmental dysplasia underwent primary total hip arthroplasty 30 years earlier using a high hip centre reconstruction. She presented with progressive hip pain, progresive aditional limb shortening, and radiographic loosening with cranial migration of the acetabular component, with the proximal tip adjacent to the sacral spinal canal, creating an irregular periacetabular bone defect.

Laser-based additive manufacturing processes have long been established in a variety of industrial applications due to their intrinsic geometric freedom and scalability. In recent years, the previous quasi-isothermal paradigm in polymer powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/P), which relies on the intermediate suppression of crystallization processes at temperatures near the melting point, has evolved into one option alongside the variothermal PBF of semi-crystalline polymers. Variothermal processes rely on significantly reduced build chamber temperatures and focus on the intermediate separation of crystallization-induced shrinkage and the macroscopic part geometry. Based on exposure strategy adaptations, we enable the cold processability on industrially available machinery through the implementation of discretized exposure strategies.

 

 

Mandible reconstruction is a challenging step in oral cancer surgery, because it has a complex three-dimensional shape and must simultaneously restore facial symmetry, airway support, mastication and speech. The fibula free flap is considered the gold standard for mandible reconstruction because it provides a long segment of dense cortical bone with a reliable vascular pedicle, allows multiple osteotomies to recreate the mandibular contour, and can support dental implants while permitting simultaneous soft-tissue reconstruction. Virtual surgical planning and 3D-printed cutting guides have become important because they improve accuracy of bony alignment, occlusion, and facial symmetry, reduce operative time, and enhance functional outcomes compared to freehand techniques

Western countries are facing significant challenges, including an ageing population and the demand for improved healthcare solutions. In healthcare, each patient has unique needs, yet conventional medical solutions often rely on generalized approaches. Additive manufacturing (AM) has emerged as a promising avenue for crafting personalized healthcare solutions. Advances in medical imaging and image processing now enable the creation of precise 3D models of patient anatomy, which can be leveraged for tailored designs and treatments. This study explores both current and prospective applications of AM in medicine by examining various case examples.

In recent years, additive manufacturing (AM), colloquially known as 3D printing, has evolved from a prototyping technology to a significant production method in numerous industries worldwide. Its ability to produce complex geometries with minimal material waste and significantly reduce production times makes it particularly attractive for the defense sector. The specific advantages of AM for this sector include the potential for cost efficiency, accelerated prototype development, adaptability to specific military needs, and strengthened supply chain resilience.