## Introduction
For decades, surgeons have fitted the patient to the implant. In 2026, the trend has reversed: we now fit the implant to the patient. **3D Printed Customized Joint Implants** are transforming from a high-end niche into a clinical reality for complex cases.
## Why Customize?
Standard implants come in 8 to 12 sizes. However, up to **15% of patients** have anatomy that falls between these sizes or possesses unusual curvatures that lead to “overhang” or “under-coverage.”
* **Customized TKA:** A femoral component 3D-printed from a patient’s CT scan provides 100% cortical coverage and perfect rotational alignment.
* **Complex Revision:** 3D printing allows for the creation of “custom triflange” acetabular cups that fill massive bone voids that standard revision shells cannot handle.
## The Technology: Additive Manufacturing
Ortholyx utilizes **Selective Laser Melting (SLM)** to build implants layer-by-layer from medical-grade titanium powder.
1. **Digital Planning:** Engineers and surgeons collaborate on a 3D model of the patient’s bone.
2. **Porous Integration:** The printer can create a “trabecular” surface on the back of the implant that is superior to standard coatings for bone ingrowth.
3. **Delivery:** The custom implant is delivered with a 3D-printed surgical guide, ensuring the cuts match the implant perfectly.
## Clinical Benefits
* **Zero Overhang:** Eliminates soft tissue irritation.
* **Bone Preservation:** Only the necessary bone is removed because the implant matches the natural anatomy.
* **Shorter Surgery:** No time is spent “test-fitting” standard sizes.
## Conclusion
3D printing is the ultimate tool for personalized medicine. While standard Ortholyx joints remain the high-volume choice, our custom additive manufacturing division provides the “salvage” and “perfect fit” solutions for the most challenging patients.