Johnson & Johnson Wants to Use 3D Printing to Heal Broken Bones

April 20, 2017 3D Printing, Depuy Synthes, Johnson & Johnson, Medical Technology, Orthopedics

Hip Prosthesis, Surgery X-rays (Photo by: BSIP/UIG via Getty Images)

There DePuy Synthes Products, Inc., an arm of pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson (JNJ, +0.46%), is setting out to use 3D printed bones to fix injuries and deformities.

The bone health-focused J&J unit has snapped up 3D printing tech from Tissue Regeneration Systems, Inc. (TRS). The platform is able to create implantable bone-like structures that have a special type of coating that helps the body absorb them and use them to help heal injuries and deformities. It can be used in bones throughout the body, including the face and skull. J&J didn’t disclose the financial details for the deal.

“We are systematically investing in building a pipeline of 3D printed products,” said DePuy company group chairman Ciro Römer in a statement. “The TRS technology, which will be added to the DePuy Synthes Trauma Platform, is the latest example of how we are working toward developing next-generation technologies that transform healthcare delivery with individualized solutions for patients.”

3D printing has been shaking up industries ranging from car makers to airline manufacturers like Boeing. The technology has the potential to significantly reduce costs and prevent excess scrap materials.

In medicine, it’s particularly exciting because 3D-printed materials can be molded to fit individual patients—rather than rely on standardized implant sizes that may be a rough match for a person’s body.

By Sy Mukherjee | Fortune

Image Credit: BSIP/UIG via Getty Images

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About Peter Coffaro 491 Articles

A growth-driven and strategic executive, Peter Coffaro commands more than 20 years of progressive management success within the medical device industry. As a District Sales Manager for Stryker Orthopaedics, Peter was responsible for managing and directing a regional sales force to achieve sales and profit goals within the Rocky Mountain region. Previously, he was the Director of Sales & Marketing for Amp Orthopedics. In this role, Peter was responsible for planning, developing, and leading all sales and marketing initiatives. Peter is a former orthopedic distributor in the Pacific Northwest. He has also worked with DePuy Orthopaedics as well as Zimmer, and held positions in sales, sales training, and sales management. Peter has an extensive background in organizational development, business development, sales management, negotiating and P&L management. Peter holds a B.S. degree in Biology from Northern Illinois University.