Orthopedic implant development is rooted in historical achievements, from advancements in materials, x-ray technology and inventions like fracture plating and interbody cages. Until the advent of additive manufacturing, most product form factors had only slightly changed over the past 60 years.

A boom of 3D-printed cages, screws, guides and plates has now flooded the scene, but the question must be asked: to what extent does additive manufacturing improve outcomes? What constitutes a design worth printing? What relevant design inspiration can be taken from biological forms, and does it matter?

This session will delve into these questions and help communicate advanced composition techniques using computational design tools that will assist engineers and other development professionals in their journey to advance the next generation of orthopedic implants.