Stratasys Spearheads Clinical Study in Orthopedic Oncology with 3D Printed Models

Stratasys Ltd. SSYS, a leader in polymer-based 3D printing solutions, has recently joined forces with Ricoh to initiate a pioneering clinical study. The collaborative research focuses on the potential advantages of utilizing 3D-printed models for surgical planning in the realm of orthopedic oncology over conventional imaging techniques such as CT or MRI scans. The study, co-sponsored by both companies, seeks to assess the efficacy of 3D printed models in improving the precision of bone tumor excisions.

3D Printing Technology in Medicine

As 3D printing technology continues to evolve, its application in medical practices has experienced a noteworthy expansion. Companies like SSYS, Desktop Metal, Inc. DM, and 3D Systems Corporation DDD are at the forefront of these advancements. With SSYS's expertise in connected, polymer-based 3D printing solutions, DM's manufacturing prowess, and DDD's digital manufacturing solutions, each brings unique capabilities to the healthcare sector.

Materialize NV MTLS, another prominent player in the additive manufacturing and medical software space, offers expertise that has the potential to complement these efforts. The utilization of 3D printing in surgical planning and the fabrication of patient-specific models signifies a shift towards personalized medicine, where treatments and interventions are tailored to individual patient anatomies.

The Study's Significance

The joint clinical study by SSYS and Ricoh, symbolizing Ricoh's public trading reference as RICOF, is poised to deliver valuable data on the application of 3D printing in surgical oncology. Traditional imaging techniques, while established, present limitations in three-dimensional spatial understanding, an area where physical models could offer superior insights. By providing surgeons with a tangible representation of bone tumors, it’s proposed that these 3D printed models may enhance surgical accuracy, reduce operation times, and potentially lead to better patient outcomes.

The success of this study could usher in a new era in surgical planning, solidifying the role of 3D printing in modern healthcare. If proven effective, the demand for such technologies from SSYS, DM, MTLS, DDD, and counterparts could see a significant increase, potentially impacting their market positions and financial performances.

3Dprinting, oncology, medical