Additively manufactured, drug-delivering implants adapted to the individual patient anatomy

Introduction Pharmacotherapy of pathological conditions within the skull presents significant challenges due to physiological barriers like the blood-labyrinth barrier. The use of systemic drug application, whether oral or intravenous, often demands exceedingly high doses to achieve adequate drug bioavailability in head structures. This approach is associated with substantial adverse effects and the risk of failing to attain the necessary drug concentration in the target area, resulting in inconsistent outcomes in clinical drug therapies. The solution to these challenges lies in localized, sustained drug delivery. The development of personalized implants that precisely conform to a patient's anatomy is of paramount importance. 3D-printing allows design freedom and therefore the additive manufacturing of patient-individualized drug delivering implants.

Method We developed a comprehensive workflow that initiates with 3D clinical scans of the target area. These scans are subjected to software processing capable of semi-automated segmentation of the area of interest. Following this, implants are 3D-printed from silicone loaded with repurposed drugs. These additively manufactured implants are specifically tailored for applications in the outer ear canal, round window niche, and frontal sinus.

Results Various aspects, including drug release rates, biocompatibility, bio-efficacy, accuracy, and precision are assessed. Animal model based in vivo experiments were conducted to investigate the safety and efficacy. Initial individual therapeutic attempts are ongoing.

Discussion The data show encouraging results in terms of safety, patient compliance and positive therapeutic effects. Nevertheless, the therapeutic benefit for patients has to be proven in future prospective studies.

Funding information The development of the technology, software and work flow was funded by the “Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung” (BMBF), ‘RESPONSE–Partnership for Innovation in Implant Technology’ in the program ‘Zwanzig20–Partnership for Innovation’. Project ID 03ZZ0928L

 

Scroll to top

Publication History

Article published online:
19 April 2024