Self-Expanding, Patient-Specific Stents - 3D-printed metallic glass stents
Ref.-No. 7463
Keywords: Additive Manufacturing in Medical Technology, self expanding stents, bulk metallic glasses (BMGs), biocompatible high performance materials, sustainable implant manufacturing
The medical market increasingly demands smart, patient-specific implants. At the same time, costs and quality requirements are rising. The invention by the University of Duisburg-Essen is the first to allow additively manufactured self-expanding stents made of amorphous metals (bulk metallic glasses, or BMGs) by means of selective laser powder bed fusion of metals (PBF-LB/M), in which a thin layer of metal powder is applied and a laser melts the areas that are part of the component based on CAD component data. This process is repeated until all component layers have been generated. Unlike subtractive methods, PBF-LB/M is a digital manufacturing process that requires no tools and can be used for complex geometries. It also features process control suitable for BMG processing. The amorphous BMG microstructure results in special properties, specifically high strength, good elasticity, and biocompatibility.
The invention represents a technological breakthrough: it combines the advantages of high-performance BMGs with the degrees of geometrical freedom available in additive manufacturing. The resulting manufacturing process chain is also more efficient and sustainable than those for conventional stent manufacturing processes such nitinol laser cutting.
Competitive Advantages
- High elasticity
- Biocompatibility
- Low material waste
- High precision
Commercial Opportunities
Today, additive manufacturing is sufficiently established in clinical and industrial settings to make mass customization realistic in a medical technology context. Given growing numbers of patients, the demand for quantity is increasing even as better fits, fewer complications, and customized solutions, especially for complex anatomies for reinterventions or challenging vascular geometries, are becoming necessary. BMG stents can greatly enhance implant service life, safety, and efficiency and open new market segments such as:
- Medical technology companies
- Manufacturers of patient-specific implants
- Companies providing minimally invasive therapies
Current Status
Laboratory-standard tests have been performed with satisfactory results. Laboratory-standard technical feasibility has been established. The invention has been registered with the German Patent and Trade Mark Office, and other subsequent international applications can be made in the priority year. We are offering interested companies the opportunity to license and refine this technology in collaboration with the University of Duisburg-Essen. The technology can also be researched as part of a project in which interested companies can participate.
Technology Readiness Level
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Technology validated in relevant environment
Relevant Puclications
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An invention from the University of Duisburg-Essen.
