Case Study: Biodonostia Health Research Institute achieves 2-hour surgical time reduction with Stratasys 3D printing

Biodonostia Health Research Institute - Customer Case Study

Biodonostia Health Research Institute, a medical research center co-located with Donostia University Hospital in the Basque region of Spain, faced complex thoracic wall tumor surgeries that required highly precise, patient-specific planning. In-house models lacked the necessary detail and strength, so the institute leveraged Stratasys 3D printing technology (notably the Stratasys Fortus 450mc and FDM® processes) via a partnership with local partners to meet those demands.

Stratasys FDM printing was used to convert CT scans into anatomically accurate, bone‑like models (returned within 24 hours) that allowed surgeons to rehearse the resection, pre-measure screws and pre-bend titanium plates. Using Stratasys models reduced operating time by two hours, lowered anesthesia exposure, improved patient communication and consent, freed up OR time (saving costs), and has prompted Biodonostia to expand 3D printing across other surgical disciplines.

Biodonostia Health Research Institute

Jon Zabaleta

Thoracic Surgeon