3D Gens first Malaysian company to produce patient specific bone implants

KUALA LUMPUR: Technology company, 3D Gens Sdn Bhd has emerged as the first company in Malaysia to produce patient specific implants (PSI) via three-dimensional (3D) metal printing for patients who need bone replacement.

The custom-made implants would be manufactured according to the patient's individual anatomical specifications, using locally available technology.

Established in 2016, 3D Gens is providing the service to both local and overseas patients, with help from the Malaysian Technology Development Corporation (MTDC).

"We are currently providing our services to customers in Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates and Europe and we aim to further expand it to other countries," said 3D Gens founder Dr Izhar Aziz.

Speaking to Bernama, he said the 3D metal printing technology is capable of producing aesthetic customised implants according to the patient's requirement, which is better than the ones produced through the conventional method.

Additionally, not only does the PSI technology provide numerous advantages for both the patient and the hospital, but it would also reduce surgery time and surgery-related risks, he said.

"The conventional method used in hospitals has its limitations, in that it would not be able to complete certain procedures nor can it address complicated cases.

"But all this can be resolved through this latest technology, and patients can get a bone implant in the shape of the original bone," he said.

Dr Izhar said the bone implants would help patients inflicted by trauma or disfigurement due to accidents, especially those affecting the skull.

"3D Gens' main vision is to customise each implant instead of relying on a standard size, and our main agenda is to ensure that aesthetic surgeries are no longer performed using conventional protocols which can be lengthy.

"However, because this technology is still in its infancy, the facilities require quite a lot of capital, and it is due to our strategic partnership with MTDC that we managed to get help to develop this technology," he said.

He said the MTDC had assisted in terms of funding, advisory services with regards to service and product marketing as well as business know-how to further develop the company.

"With the PSI technology, we have been able to design and produce the implants locally," he added.

3D Gens was established with the aim of industrialising 3D modelling and 3D printing, centred on its goal to become a pioneer in digital manufacturing through a strong foundation in computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing and additive manufacturing technology.

The company made its start by penetrating the Malaysian medical industry, specifically in the areas of surgical planning and implants, and customised medical devices.

It has since received an overwhelming response and plans to expand its services in orthopaedics, maxillofacial and dentistry fields.

3D Gens also provides services in the engineering, automotive and aerospace industries.

-- BERNAMA