Polyetherimide in 3D printing: Pioneering non-metallic solutions for personalized orthopedic and traumatology hip prosthetics

• DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2024.102372
• Publication Date: 2024-06-13T19:58:29Z
• Authors: M. Suffo; C. López-Marín; C. Revenga; P. Andrés-Cano
• Keywords: Polyetherimide; Traumatology; 3d printed; Limiting

Currently, Total Hip Replacement (THR) hip prosthetics are typically made from metallic materials using subtractive manufacturing, and they not personalized. These materials, with higher densities than trabecular bone, can cause microfractures due to fatigue cycles. This study aims demonstrate the feasibility of Polyetherimide (PEI) as a rigid thermoplastic in additive offering viable alternative for patient-specific prostheses humans or pets. The starting point was commercial prosthesis, similar replica 3D modelled, test specimens were printed ULTEM 1010 material. PEI prosthesis meets outlined standards offers an young, lightweight patients, various It does so by adapting specific patient's anatomical needs. Fatigue life found be limiting factor, 392 N applied exceeded million cycles limitation set this study, prompting us focus on prosthesis' use children, small