3D design and production of personalized medical devices for patients with airway diseases

The aim of the project is to realize innovative, individualized medical devices for patients with respiratory problems using 3D technology. In this research project, steps are taken in the various work packages towards the design and production of trachea cannulas, laryngectomy tubes, vocal cord implants (and required customized surgical instruments) and tracheo-bronchial airway stents (and required delivery system) based on 3D technology.

The expected results include:

• Development and clinical implementation of a novel digitized workflow for laryngeal tube solutions based on patient-specific airway evaluation (related to the digital twin model of P1).
• Clinical validation of the above workflow in a patient sequence including postoperative follow-up and improved quality of life and function for the patients.
• New development of larynx implants to optimize the patient’s voice. A unique approach in the world.

The project is a collaboration between the UMCG Ear, Nose and Throat Department (Prof. Gyuri Halmos, Dr. Jasper Wachters), the Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Prof. Dirk-Jan Slebos and the UMCG 3D Lab. To know about the partners, please visit the page Partners.

If you have any question about the project or you would like to connect, please contact us via implants@umcg.nl.

The Just Transition Fund provides essential support, advancing the green and sustainable development of the Drenthe, Groningen, and Fryslân Provinces, the Municipality of Emmen, and the Northern Labour Market regions. The fund is co-financed by the European Union and the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy and is made available by the regional funding agency Samenwerkingsverband Noord-Nederland (SNN), with support from the Province and Municipality of Groningen.