Medical

Most people will probably have read news stories about synthetic hearts, livers and other organs, but fewer people know how 3D printing is being used in the ‘here and now’ in the medical industry.

At Ricoh 3D, we have already been involved in a variety of exciting medical projects that have made living conditions better for thousands of people.

Our experts are proud to partner with healthcare professionals from The Orthotic Research & Locomotor Assessment Unit (ORLAU) at The Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, NHS Trust.

The duo have successfully launched an innovative Knee-Alignment Device (KAD) into the local hospital, which subsequently won a TCT Healthcare Application Award in 2022.

More recently, Ricoh 3D has collaborated with ORLAU to develop a lever-hinge mechanism for ankle-foot orthotics: Ankle CCD Lever Kit. In short, the 3D printed lever has made it much easier for patients to put on and take off their orthotic (otherwise known as ‘donning’ and ‘doffing’).

Working directly with radiologists at RJAH, Ricoh 3D has also manufactured patient-specific surgical-anatomical models. These have been used for surgery preparation, reducing the time of surgery, thus reducing costs, resource, and most importantly, enhancing patient care.

Aside from orthotics, additive manufacturing is revolutionising the wider medical sector at an unprecedented pace, offering limitless possibilities in patient care, surgical procedures, and even pharmaceuticals.

For example, medical 3D printing gives surgeons the chance to analyse the problem and formulate a plan of action prior to the patient going to theatre. This strategy has been proven to save time and, crucially, money, as well as minimising potential trauma.

Surgical instruments can also be produced using AM and are typically used for intricate operations.

The customisation of 3D printing is also exciting for the manufacture of prosthetic limbs as they can be produced to fit the patient perfectly, and the dental industry has used the technology for restorations, castable crowns and bridges.

At Ricoh 3D, we are supporting this transformative journey, empowering our customers and partners to harness the full potential of 3D printing in healthcare.

Together, we are not only driving innovation but also making significant strides towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 – Good Health & Wellbeing.

Why choose Ricoh 3D? 

Through our collaborative efforts and ever-growing medical portfolio, we are actively shaping a healthier future for all. From customised prosthetics and orthotic systems, to intricate surgical models and PPE, every product we create is a testament to our commitment to improving global healthcare outcomes, sustainably.

Join us in pioneering the next frontier of medical breakthroughs; we are STRONGER TOGETHER.

We can make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals worldwide, all while advancing towards a more sustainable and inclusive future for generations to come.

Certification: ISO 13485