R&D Focus
Bringing New Hope: 3D-Printed Prosthetic Jaws Transform Lives
“I never knew being able to chew could be such a blessing, a gift that was hard-earned for some,” said Sung-Ho Liu, Division Director of Advanced Photonics at ITRI Southern Region Campus. In 2019, following a call from Dr. Chun-Feng Chen, an oral and maxillofacial attending surgeon at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital (KSVGH), ITRI and KSVGH embarked on a collaborative journey to develop 3D-printed prosthetic jaws.
Dr. Chun-Feng Chen (second left) of KSVGH and Sung-Ho Liu (second right) of ITRI are key research members involved in the development of the 3D-printed prosthetic jaw.
At the onset of their endeavor into jaw reconstruction via 3D printing, the feasibility of such prostheses seemed like “an unimaginable dream,” according to Liu. Nevertheless, fueled by a profound sense of commitment, they recognized the potential to impact lives.
Over 60% of oral cancer patients require oral and jaw reconstruction surgery. However, current procedures, which involve a slender bone plate and patients’ own skin flaps, often result in gaps from the gum bed, impeding proper chewing, speech, and the achievement of a natural jawline. Occasionally, poor fit may lead to exposure of the implant. Even after the surgery, patients still face challenges in resuming normal lifestyles.
The 3D-printed prosthetic jaw co-developed by ITRI and KSVGH.
After rigorously testing hundreds of models and subjecting them to over 500 million dental occlusion simulations, the co-developed 3D-printed prosthetic jaw underwent successful clinical trials with nine patients. Unlike traditional reconstruction surgery, the 3D-printing technology allows for complete customization, perfectly matching the patient’s original jawbone structure. Moreover, the use of medical-grade titanium alloy ensures high biocompatibility, minimizing the risk of rejection and the need for further surgery. A notable feature of this prosthetic is its patented folding spring design, which provides cushioning between the metallic jaw, patients’ bones, and patients’ dental implants. This pressure relief mechanism distributes chewing force evenly, promoting long-term stability and durability.
The results have been promising. KSVGH reported that all prostheses remain secure and functional after extended use. More importantly, over half the patients have regained normal chewing function. One patient, in particular, shared her joy during an interview. Having lost part of her jaw during her college years, she endured a decade of limited biting function, restricted to consuming only liquid food. With the successful implantation of the prosthetic jaw, she not only regained the ability to chew and speak naturally but also reclaimed her smile.
“Knowing our efforts can genuinely improve someone’s life is the greatest encouragement and motivation we can get,” said Liu. ITRI and KSVGH are continuously refining this innovative prosthetic design and its surgical procedures, with the ultimate goal of increasing its availability and transforming the lives of more patients.