An innovative treatment for ankle cartilage damage is coming closer. Researchers at the UT and Radboud university medical center, working within HealthTech Nexus, are developing a 3D-printed implant that could offer patients a less invasive alternative to current treatment options.
The implant, called AMPLANK, is specifically designed for patients with damaged ankle cartilage. At present, two surgical treatments are commonly used: ankle fusion (arthrodesis) and total ankle replacement. Both procedures are invasive and can limit the natural movement of the ankle.
AMPLANK aims to change that. The implant is custom-made for each patient and designed to fit within the limited space of the ankle joint without requiring the removal of healthy bone.
“Ankle cartilage damage can have a major impact on mobility and quality of life,” says researcher Athena Jalalian from the University of Twente. “With AMPLANK, we want to offer patients a new treatment option that better matches their anatomy and lifestyle.”
According to Dennis Janssen, Associate Professor at Radboudumc, modern 3D-printing technologies make it possible to design implants that closely match the damaged joint. “By creating patient-specific implants, we can improve the fit and potentially reduce the risk of complications.”
Prototype phase
The research team is currently developing a prototype of the implant. This will be followed by extensive testing. First, computer simulations will be used to assess how the implant behaves within the joint. The implant will then be evaluated in an anatomical setting to verify its fit and performance. In addition to the technical development, the researchers are working closely with ankle surgeons to design a safe and feasible surgical procedure.
The researchers see particular potential for young and active patients, for whom current treatment options are often far from ideal.
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