Case Study: MMI achieves modular surgeon training with Materialise 3D-printed exercise boards

MMI Uses Modular AM-Inspired Surgeon Training Board for Robotic Microsurgeries

MMI, a medtech company specializing in robotic microsurgeries, needed a better way to train surgeons on its Symani Surgical System. Its existing exercise board was large, rigid, and awkward to use, forcing constant adjustments of the microscope and robotic arms and disrupting the surgeon’s focus during practice. Materialise partnered with MMI to redesign this training setup using additive manufacturing, specifically selective laser sintering with PA 12.

Materialise created a compact, modular exercise board made up of six 3D-printed hexagonal modules, supported by hybrid-manufactured components such as a vacuum-cast base and stainless-steel plate for stability. The new board is easier to set up, more ergonomic, and quick to reconfigure, with modules that can be swapped for different training exercises and skill levels. The solution reduced setup time, enabled small-series production without MOQs, and helped MMI deliver a more integrated, future-proof training tool for robotic microsurgery.

MMI