WSU professors develop new 3D printed surgical metal that reduces risk of infection

A team of researchers at Washington State University (WSU) has developed a new 3D printed surgical metal that could significantly reduce the risk of infection. The new metal, made from titanium, tantalum and copper, has been shown in laboratory tests to kill up to 87% of the bacteria that cause staph infections.

Implant-related infections are a serious complication of surgery and can result in prolonged hospital stays, additional surgeries, and even death. The current standard treatment for preventing implant infections is the use of antibiotics. However, these drugs are becoming less effective as the bacteria become more and more resistant.

New 3D printed metal is a promising alternative to antibiotics because it can kill bacteria without the use of drugs.The metal is made by adding tantalum and copper to titanium, both of which are known for their antibacterial properties.

In laboratory tests, the new metal was found to be effective against a variety of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, the most common cause of implant-associated infections. The metal was also found to be biocompatible, meaning it is non-toxic to human cells.

researchers are now planning to conduct clinical studies with the new metal. They hope that the metal will be approved for use in humans in the coming years.

advantages of the new 3D printed surgical metal

• Reduces the risk of infections associated with implants
• The use of antibiotics is not necessary.
• It is biocompatible

possible applications of the new 3D printed surgical metal

• Orthopedic Implants
• Dental implants
• cardiovascular implants
• Neurosurgical Implants

The development of this new 3D printed surgical metal is a significant advance that has the potential to revolutionize the way implant-associated infections are prevented. If the metal is successful in clinical trials, it could save many lives and improve the quality of life for millions.

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