Mumbai-Based Nanavati Max Hospital Unveils Bioengineering Lab with 3D Printing

Focused on oncology, this facility will provide advanced precision surgeries for oncologic, orthopaedic, and dental procedures.

Mumbai-based Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital has inaugurated a cutting-edge Medical 3D printing laboratory to enhance precision in surgeries. 

This facility is particularly focused on oncology, aiming to provide advanced precision surgeries essential for oncologic, reconstructive orthopaedic, and specialised dentistry procedures.

The newly unveiled lab is equipped with two sophisticated 3D printers capable of producing intricate bone models crucial for surgical planning. These models and surgical cutting guides assist surgeons in meticulously planning and executing bone cancer surgeries with unparalleled accuracy.

Commenting on the development, Dr Agarwal, director of Surgical Oncology (Orthopaedic) at Nanavati Max Institute of Cancer Care, said, "Our in-house lab, equipped with state-of-the-art tools and staffed with expert bioengineering professionals, ensures rapid production of bone models and cutting guides.” 

He added that previously, outsourcing such services could take up to two weeks, but now, the hospital can deliver these essential tools within 24 to 48 hours. This not only expedites the surgical process but also proves to be more cost-effective for patients. 

“The use of open-source software and internal resources has made this advanced technology highly affordable, widening its accessibility to a broader patient base," Aggarwal added.

Expounding on the advantages of the 3D printing lab, Dr Agarwal highlighted that the integration of custom-made jigs, intricate bone models, and advanced navigational tools elevates the hospital’s surgical planning to unprecedented levels. These innovations not only enhance the accuracy of surgical interventions but also substantially improve patient outcomes, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.

Advancing Surgical Precision through 3D Bone Model Technology

The virtual design of 3D bone models, derived from CT scans, is revolutionising surgical precision. Utilised by 3D printers, these models and surgical cutting guides boast unparalleled accuracy, fitting seamlessly onto patients' bones. This innovation guides surgeons to execute precise excisions with confidence.

This integration of technology with clinical expertise extends its benefits beyond orthopaedic and head and neck cancer surgeries to various disciplines including general orthopaedic, maxillofacial, and plastic surgeries. The adoption of such advanced technologies across multiple medical domains signifies a paradigm shift in healthcare, promising unprecedented advancements in patient care and surgical outcomes.

Other Notable Advancements in 3D Printing Technology

Previously, in December 2023, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) pioneered the development of 3D-printed face implants to assist patients suffering from Black Fungus, a severe condition affecting COVID-19 patients and individuals with certain medical conditions.

Furthermore, KMC Hospital's Center of Excellence for Technology-Assisted Reconstructive Surgery unveiled its pioneering 3D Designing and Printing Lab in collaboration with CTARS. This facility promises to reshape healthcare practices in coastal Karnataka and northern Kerala, offering services like pre-surgical planning, educational tools, and personalized guides and implants, thereby enhancing surgical precision and clinical outcomes.

Founded in 2001, Max Healthcare Institute Limited (MHIL) is one of India's largest hospital chains. With a network of 17 healthcare facilities concentrated primarily in North India, MHIL offers state-of-the-art tertiary and quaternary care hospitals, secondary care hospitals, and daycare centres. 

In addition to its core hospital business, MHIL operates two strategic business units - Max@Home and Max Lab - providing health and wellness services at home and diagnostic services to patients outside its network.