In 2024, the Ichilov hospital implants a 3D ankle in a young woman after an accident, managing to walk in weeks.
Innovation in Orthopedics with 3D implant in Tel Aviv
In July 2024, the Hospital Ichilov in Tel Aviv He marked a milestone in Israeli medicine by implanting a personalized ankle printed in 3D to a young woman who suffered a serious skateboard accident. The patient, whose identity was not revealed, presented severe damage to the ankle joint, which compromised their mobility. The Orthopedics team, led by specialists from the Surgical Innovation and 3D Centerdesigned a custom implant using computerized tomography images (TAC). This advance allowed the young woman to walk again in a few weeks, according to publications on platform X on July 15, 2024. Surgery, first of her kind in Israelhighlights the country’s leadership in medical technologies applied to orthopedics.
The procedure was based on 3D printing technology, which transforms medical image data into precise physical models. In this case, surgeons used advanced software to create a damaged digital ankle model, replicating their exact anatomy. The implant, manufactured with biocompatible materials as a porous titanium, was integrated into the patient’s bone, ensuring stability and functionality. Dr. Shlomo Dadiadirector of Surgical Innovation and 3D Center In Ichilov, it supervised the design and production of the implant, which was carried out in the hospital laboratory. The operation lasted less than two hours, and the patient began to walk with support on the third postoperative day, a remarkably fast recovery time.
3D printing technology has revolutionized orthopedics by allowing personalized implants that exceed the limitations of standard prostheses. Unlike traditional solutions, which offer generic sizes, 3D implants adapt to the unique anatomy of each patient, reducing complications and improving the results. In the case of the young woman, the implant not only restored mobility, but prevented the fusion of the ankle, an intervention that would have permanently restrict the movement of the articulation. He Hospital Ichilovknown for its excellence in orthopedic procedures, has integrated this technology in its practice since 2013, when it established its 3D printing laboratory under the direction of Dr. Dadia.
The success of this surgery reinforces the position of Israel as leader in medical innovation. He Surgical Innovation and 3D Center De Ichilov has developed implants for various applications, from bone reconstructions to prostheses for bone sarcomas. In 2024, the laboratory produced more than 100 custom implants, attending complex cases that require high precision. The collaboration between engineers and surgeons in the hospital guarantees that each implant meets rigorous clinical standards, using advanced materials that promote bone integration and durability. This multidisciplinary approach has attracted the attention of international medical institutions, consolidating Ichilov as a global reference.
Key data on 3D implants at Ichilov Hospital
- First 3D ankle surgery in Israel: Made in July 2024 in a young woman after a skateboard accident.
- Recovery time: The patient walked with support for the third day and without crutches in two weeks.
- Implant material: Porous titanium, designed to integrate into the bone and maximize stability.
- 3D Laboratory: Founded in 2013, it produces more than 100 custom implants per year.
- Leadership: Dr. Shlomo Dadia, expert in orthopedic oncology and 3D technology.
3D technology in orthopedics: advances in Israel
3D impression on medicine is not new in Israelbut its application in Orthopedics has reached unprecedented levels. In 2019, the Hospital Beilinson In Petah Tikva he performed the first Talus replacement surgeries (ankle bone) with 3D implants, attending two women with serious injuries. These operations, directed by Dr. Alon Burg and the South African surgeon Dr. Graham McCollumThey marked the beginning of the adoption of this technology in the country. The implants allowed patients to avoid the fusion of the ankle, preserving mobility. Since then, hospitals like Inwards y Sheba Medical Center They have expanded the use of 3D implants to treat complex fractures, bone tumors and congenital deformities.
In it Hospital Ichilov3D technology is combined with robotic systems such as Strykerwhich provides three -dimensional visualization during joint replacement surgeries. This system, used in knee and hip procedures, allows surgeons to precisely plan implants, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. In the case of the 3D printed ankle, the modeling software allowed to adjust the imple (= “Tru” “3D Modeling Software”) 3D used in the Surgery Reured That the Implant Fit Perfectly, Racing The Risk of Complications. The Surgery Cost Approximately $ 9,957, A Competitive Price Compared to similar procedures in the US or Europe.
He Hospital Ichilov Not only leads in orthopedics, but also collaborates with global institutions to advance 3D implants. In 2024, the hospital established an exchange program with the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, where knowledge about manufacturing personalized implants is shared. This program, supported by companies such as Stratasysan Israeli-American company of 3D printing, has accelerated the production of complex implants. Ichilov’s ankle surgery received international attention, with experts highlighting its impact on the treatment of injuries that previously required invasive solutions.
Orthopedics in Israel It has evolved thanks to the integration of advanced technologies. He Surgical Innovation and 3D Center From Ichillow now serves international patients, attracted by quality and accessible costs. In 2025, the hospital plans to expand its laboratory to produce 3D implants for other joints, such as shoulder and wrist. The combination of medical experience and cutting -edge technology positions Israel as a leader in personalized orthopedic solutions.
Global Context of 3D Printing in Medicine
3D impression on medicine has grown exponentially since the early 2010s. Israelits adoption in orthopedics responds to the need to deal with complex cases, such as accidents for accidents or bone tumors. Globally, hospitals in Of. His., Europa y Asia have implemented this technology, but Israel It stands out for its speed in integrating innovations. Companies like Axial3D y Materialise They have reduced the implant design time from weeks to days, making the procedures more accessible. In 2024, the global orthopedic 3D devices market reached a value of $ 1.5 billion, according to Technaviowith projected growth of 15% annually until 2028.
In Israelthe government has supported research in medical technologies through funds for startups and hospitals. He Ministry of Health and the Israel Innovation Authority They have financed projects in Ichilov and other centers, ensuring that advances quickly reach patients. 2024 3D ankle surgery is an example of how collaboration between the public and private sector promotes medical results. 3D implants not only improve the quality of life, but also reduce long -term costs by minimizing additional surgeries.
Other Israeli hospitals, such as Hadassah y RambamThey have adopted 3D impression for bone reconstructions. In January 2024, Hadassah He used a 3D model to rebuild the knee of an injured soldier, demonstrating the versatility of technology. These innovations have positioned Israel as a destination for patients looking for advanced treatments. The costs in Ichilov, which range between $ 9,000 and $ 10,000 for 3D procedures, are significantly lower than in Of. His.where they can exceed $ 20,000.
3D impression has also found applications beyond orthopedics. In Inwardssurgical guides and anatomical models have been produced to plan complex operations. Technology allows surgeons to practice procedures in exact replicas of patient organs, increasing precision. In the future, Israel It plans to explore bioimpression, which combines biological materials with 3D structures to regenerate tissues. This approach, even in an experimental phase, could transform regenerative medicine in the next decade.
