Custom Fit skull implants saves life’s

When a person is heavily injured or has cancer that causes severe cranial damage, a first time right, well fitting implant is better for the patient and saves enormous time and costs in the surgery and recovery process. The Custom Fit technology makes it possible to achieve these benefits by means of rapid manufactured, custom made skull implants. By integration of Rapid Manufacturing (RM)-, scanning-, software- and bio degradable material technology a true rapid design and manufacturing of a customized skull implant has been realised. The results are astonishing:  68% reduction of the design time, 53% reduction of the production time and 50% reduction of the time needed in the operation theatre.

This medical application is one of the many applications that are possible by use of RM. It is one of the applications created in the Custom Fit project. The Custom Fit project is an EU sponsored research program that aims to “integrate Rapid Manufacturing-, scanning-, software- and material technology to improve the Quality of Life of European Citizens through Customized Products”. Leading companies and research institutes are combining forces to create one-of products that exactly fit the human body. This is not limited to medical applications. By means of Rapid manufacturing techniques further personification of physical consumer goods, like helmets and chairs are also made possible. For more information, look at www.custom-fit.org.