Frequently asked questions
Cooperation with 3di
How can I order an implant from 3di?
3di also delivers the patient-specific implants abroad if the admission requirements are met there. We also work with distributors, so please feel free to contact us and we will put you in touch with them.
phone: +49 (0) 36 41–50 96 19
e‑mail: nicolai.krampitz@3di.de
What are the advantages of 3di’s patient-specific implants?
Reduced effort for the surgeon, lower risk for the patient, fewer follow-up treatments and lower overall treatment costs thanks to:
- Precise adaptation to the defect area
- Maximum precision even with any degree of complexity
- Material independence of the manufacturing process
- Short manufacturing times and on-time delivery for surgery appointments
How long does it take to manufacture a 3di implant?
We usually need around three working days, but in emergencies we can also provide the implant within 48 hours.
What materials can be used?
In principle, all clinically tested and approved materials can be processed using our method. We currently work with PEEK, BIOVERIT®II and titanium (titanium alloy Ti6Al4V), as these materials offer the most advantages. The material used depends on the defect and the defect area and is determined by the treating physician in consultation with 3di.
Patient-specific implants from 3di
How complex can the implants be?
Almost any bone structure of the human skull can be replicated. The manufacturing accuracy is < 0.5 mm. The quality of the CT data provided to us (age, layer spacing) is decisive.
What aspects are taken into account when designing the shape?
Functional protection is guaranteed and the patient’s external shape is restored or significantly improved in the case of genetic defects.
Can soft tissue deficits be compensated for with the implant/augment?
If the patient’s skin condition allows it, soft tissue deficits can be compensated for if necessary. However, this should definitely be discussed in advance with the responsible designer.
How can the implants be sterilised?
As the implants are not delivered sterile, detailed cleaning and sterilisation instructions (steam sterilisation, 134 °C) are included with every CAD plastic shipment. Our implants are suitable for re-sterilisation (max. 2 reprocessing cycles). However, the decision on whether to reuse them on a patient is always the responsibility of the treating physician.
Hard- and soft tissue models from 3di
What types of models are available from 3di?
We offer a whole range of models. Our skull models depict various bone anatomies in the head area and can also be manufactured to patient-specific requirements on request (using real CT data). This can make surgical planning easier and reduce costs. Anatomically accurate training models of the petrous bone are also available as hard tissue models ((link)). In addition to bone structures, they also depict blood vessels and internal organs. Their colourful background makes them ideal for supporting the learning process in specialist medical training.
Our soft tissue models ((link)) consist of a silicone layer modelled on skin or cartilage. The rhinoplasty model also contains artificial nasal cartilage with a transition to the bony area. Various surgical and suturing techniques can be practised and simulated on them. This makes them an uncomplicated option for training and workshops in the education and further training of medical professionals.
What are the benefits of using soft tissue models?
Uncomplicated and short-term use due to easy availability. This greatly simplifies the repeated practice of relevant surgical/suture techniques. The base bodies can be recoated, which means that the amount of material used and thus the price is lower from the second order onwards.
How much do the models cost?
Prices vary depending on the size and functionality of the model. Please feel free to contact us with your enquiry and we will send you the current price list or provide you with a specific quote.
For medical professionals and patients
What is the implant passport for?
The implant passport contains important information for the patient and their treating physicians. Healthcare facilities are required to provide an implant passport to patients with patient-specific 3di implants.
It contains details such as the patient’s first and last name, the name of the manufacturer, the name, type and model of the medical device, and a unique product number. The date of implantation and the name of the person responsible and the facility where the implantation was performed must also be entered.
The implant passport enables the product used to be clearly identified without delay. This can be very important in various situations, e. g.:
- Emergency care (in the event of accidents, etc.)
- Travel (proof, e. g. at airport security checks)
- Facilitated communication between doctor and patient (clear documentation, complete medical history)
After the procedure, make sure that you receive an implant passport (patient) or issue one (medical facility) and keep it handy.
What should I do if I lose my implant passport?
To have a new implant passport issued, please always contact the clinical facility where the implantation was performed first. Only this facility can validate a new implant passport with a stamp and signature and issue it accordingly.
I have a completely different question about 3di’s patient-specific implants – who can I contact?
If you have any questions about the manufacture of cranioplastics or the progress of existing cases, please contact your local sales representative or you can reach us at the following telephone number: +49 (0)36 41–50 96 0 or by e‑mail at contact@3di.de.
Please note, however, that all medically relevant questions can only be answered by medical professionals or the treating physician, and we cannot provide any information on this subject.