Changing Faces, Changing Lives: Custom 3D-Printed Medical Implants
Spearheaded by the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) in Medical Product Development through Additive Manufacturing, the Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing (CRPM) at the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) is bridging the gap between advanced manufacturing and critical healthcare.
Through the "Changing Faces, Changing Lives" corporate social responsibility initiative, the project has successfully assisted its 1,000th patient with custom-designed, 3D-printed titanium implants and prostheses, providing world-class, patient-specific maxillofacial and spinal solutions to underserved communities.
Strategic Alignment
Strategic Goal 2
Innovative and Industry-Relevant Programmes: Producing work-ready graduates, innovators, and entrepreneurs through applied research and advanced manufacturing.
UoT Mandate
This project directly fulfils the University of Technology mandate through STEM-focused applied research, the cultivation of a dynamic innovation eco-system, and sustainable community engagement.
Project Partners and Impact
Measurable Outcomes
- Over 1,000 patients assisted with custom-designed, 3D-printed medical implants and prostheses.
- Development of patented implant infection control technologies and bio-ceramic multi-material solutions.
- Direct translation of academic research into tangible, life-changing healthcare solutions for underserved communities.
Research Centre
Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing (CRPM) & SARChI Chair
Collaboration Partners
Selective Surgical, Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI), and regional healthcare providers
Get Involved
Join CUT in advancing health innovation and additive manufacturing. Explore how your organisation can partner with us on applied research, technology transfer, and work-integrated learning initiatives.
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