Case Study: Emerging Implant Technologies achieves faster, more reliable spinal fusion with 3D Systems' Direct Metal Printing

Innovative Metal 3D Printing for the Operating Room

Emerging Implant Technologies (EIT), a German orthopedic implant maker, partnered with 3D Systems to tackle limitations of traditional cervical fusion surgery—procedures that typically require bone grafts and stock implants and carry risks of implant migration, breakage and high reoperation rates. The challenge was to deliver patient-specific implants that fit complex anatomy faster and more reliably than conventional manufacturing.

Using 3D Systems’ Direct Metal Printing (DMP) and cloud-based manufacturing, EIT produced a porous, anatomically adapted titanium cervical fusion implant that mimics trabecular bone. The custom-fit design eliminates the need for bone grafts, improves bone–implant contact to reduce migration and reoperation risk, shortens production time and anesthesia exposure, and demonstrates the accuracy and clinical potential of metal 3D printing.

Emerging Implant Technologies

Stephanie Eisen

Chief Executive Officer