3D-printable cartilage-like hydrogel made for knee implants
In a first, US-based researchers have created a cartilage-mimicking material that may allow surgeons to 3D-print knee replacement parts. The hydrogel-based material matching human cartilage in strength and elasticity were tested for stability with a plastic model of a knee. Custom implants based on 3D models of a patient's anatomy can be obtained from CT or MRI scans, scientists said.