BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand has unveiled a major advancement in medical science with the successful use of the world’s first 3D-printed titanium hip socket bone, developed by the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University. The innovation provides a new treatment option for patients with severe hip damage who were previously unable to undergo standard hip replacement procedures.
Hip osteoarthritis, caused by joint degeneration, trauma, or congenital deformities, is a leading cause of chronic pain and mobility loss, especially among the elderly. Traditional hip replacement surgery requires a structurally sound hip socket to secure the implant, making it unsuitable for patients with eroded or fractured sockets. These cases often result in permanent disability due to the lack of viable alternatives.
To address this issue, Siriraj Hospital developed a custom-fit titanium socket using advanced 3D printing technology. The implant was successfully used in surgery, restoring mobility to a patient who had been unable to walk. The development is being hailed as a landmark in orthopedic care, offering new hope to those previously considered untreatable.
According to data from the Ministry of Public Health, the fatality rate from falls among people aged 60 and above was 10.20 deaths per 100,000 in 2023. Globally, falls result in over 684,000 deaths annually. The new hip socket technology is expected to help reduce these risks by offering a solution to one of the key complications associated with falls and aging.
Updates and further information are available through the Facebook page of Siriraj Piyamaharajkarun Hospital as the country continues to develop innovative healthcare solutions. (NNT)
