Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) has launched a groundbreaking initiative in healthcare with the introduction of 3D-printed PEEK implants, marking a significant advancement in medical technology in Pakistan. This innovative procedure aims to enhance healthcare access, affordability, and patient outcomes, particularly for those requiring complex bone replacement surgeries.
The 3D-printed PEEK implants, which are customized to fit the needs of individual patients, offer a revolutionary solution for bone replacements in areas such as the skull, jaw, and spine. These implants are not only strong and lightweight but also compatible with the human body, minimizing the risk of infection and improving long-term success rates. With these locally designed and produced implants, AKUH has set a new benchmark for affordable, high-quality medical care, dramatically reducing the cost compared to imported alternatives.
Dr. Shamim, Professor and Section Head of Neurosurgery at AKUH, emphasized the transformative impact of this technology, saying, “3D-printed PEEK implants are a game-changer in surgery, not only improving the accuracy of surgeries but also offering better integration with the human body, leading to faster recovery times and improved patient outcomes.” AKUH is the first and only hospital in Pakistan to design and manufacture 3D-printed PEEK implants in-house, using a state-of-the-art facility that is formally approved by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP). The production process adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), ensuring that the implants meet global safety and quality standards. Furthermore, the PEEK material used in these implants is FDA-approved, reinforcing their compliance with international benchmarks for safety. Dr. Saleem Sayani, Director of the Technology Innovation Support Centre at AKU, noted, “With in-house production, we can customize implants with precision, offering world-class treatments that were previously unavailable in Pakistan.” The ability to produce these implants locally significantly reduces costs for patients by eliminating the need for expensive imports. This breakthrough makes high-quality medical treatments more accessible, particularly for low- and middle-income patients, allowing them to receive cutting-edge care at a fraction of the previous cost. Dr. Asim Belgaumi, Chief Medical Officer of AKUH, Pakistan, praised the achievement, stating, “The introduction of our own manufactured PEEK implants not only elevates our surgical capabilities but also marks a vital step in making high-quality medical treatment accessible at a much lower cost for the people of Pakistan.” The initiative also contributes to environmental sustainability. By reducing reliance on international shipments, AKUH has significantly decreased the carbon footprint associated with transporting medical implants, aligning with eco-friendly healthcare practices. Since the launch of the 3D-printed PEEK implant procedure, AKUH has successfully treated 14 patients with these advanced implants, seeing positive impacts on recovery and quality of life. The implants are currently being used in cranial reconstruction, maxillofacial surgeries, and other non-weight-bearing bone procedures. Moving forward, AKUH’s team of surgeons, biomedical engineers, and researchers is committed to expanding the use of these implants to a broader range of surgeries, aiming to further improve patient outcomes.
