At the end of the 20th century, technologies stemming from aero-space engineering opened a world of new possibilities in 3D spatial architecture. LfC managed to transmit this space technology to the field of spinal implants. Electron beam melting (EBT-Electron Beam Technology) of Ti-alloy powder with temperatures over 2000 deg. C in a vacuum chamber -that is the essence of technology used to create a new generation of 3D-implants. Apart from the structure itself, which favors bone ingrowth within the spatial cells, the implant’s design enables an accelerated osteointegration mechanism reducing fusion time by 40-50 percent and more. This new phenomenon was studied and called „Ivy-like mechanism, L.C.” as a metaphor for the natural growth process of ivy, which climbs along the specially made rough surface of truss design.

Publications:
Ciupik L.F., Kierzkowska A., Cęcek J., Pieniążek J. Sterna J., Cieślik-Górna M. The use of incremental technology to produce 3D-Truss Ti6Al4V implants which improves the spinal treatment effectiveness. Key Engineering Materials; 2016; 687: 179-184.

Ciupik L.F., Kierzkowska A. Technology-biomechanical evaluation of metal biomaterials derived by layer technology. Engineering of Biomaterials; 2010; 93: 14-18.

Poster: Innovative 3D-Ti-Printing in a Worldwide spinal surgery