Siriraj Hospital at Mahidol University has made medical history by successfully developing and implanting a 3D-printed customised titanium hip socket in a patient. The procedure, believed to be the first of its kind in the world, represents a major advancement in orthopaedic surgery and showcases Thailand’s growing leadership in medical innovation.
During a press conference titled World First: Siriraj Achieves Breakthrough in Point-of-Care Manufacturing of 3D-Printed Titanium Hip Sockets with Proven Clinical Success, Dr. Apichat Asavamongkolkul, dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Siriraj Hospital, discussed the significance of the achievement.
He explained that hip osteoarthritis, often caused by chronic physical stress, congenital issues, infections, or trauma, can lead to severe pain and restricted mobility. In advanced cases, standard hip replacement options are often inadequate, especially when the acetabulum, or hip socket, is too damaged for conventional implants.
To address this challenge, Siriraj Hospital partnered with Thai medical technology company Meticuly to create patient-specific implants. Using CT scans, doctors and engineers generated digital models of a patient's pelvis, allowing them to design and fabricate a titanium implant tailored to each individual's anatomy. The design process ensures that the implant fits precisely and avoids contact with sensitive nerves and soft tissue.
The first surgery was performed on March 10. According to hospital officials, the patient is recovering well and demonstrating positive functional outcomes. The process from initial imaging to completion of the implant took about two weeks.
Dr. Keerati Chareancholvanich, head of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Physical Medicine at Siriraj, highlighted the broader implications of the success.
“This breakthrough offers new hope for patients once deemed untreatable and positions Thailand as a leader in medical innovation in orthopaedic care,” he said.
Siriraj Hospital is now exploring additional uses for personalised 3D-printed implants, which experts believe could transform treatment options for a range of complex orthopaedic conditions.