Development of Customized Bone Implants with Reduction of the Affected Area Using Surgical Guides and Additive Manufacturing. Phase 2: Additive Manufacturing with PEEK and PEKK, and Evaluation of an Implant Surface Modification

This research project, in its second phase, focuses on the optimization of customized bone implants using additive manufacturing technologies. Having established a comprehensive methodology in Phase I, the team now seeks to implement high-performance medical-grade materials, specifically PEEK and PEKK, which offer superior biocompatibility compared to the previously used polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). The multidisciplinary approach combines mechanical engineering, medicine, and materials science to design surgical guides and custom prostheses, improving precision in complex interventions. The problem addressed is the need to reduce postoperative complications and implant rejection in patients with bone pathologies. The proposed solution includes the characterization of bone structures through medical image segmentation, computer-aided design (CAD), and finite element analysis (FEM) to validate mechanical functionality. Additionally, surface modifications are being investigated to enhance bioactivity and calcium compound adhesion. Expected results include the clinical validation of these devices, the publication of indexed scientific articles, and a tangible improvement in patients' quality of life. This collaborative effort between the Universidad Politécnica Salesiana and various medical institutions aims to democratize access to high-precision bone reconstruction technologies in the region.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>Apply a comprehensive methodology for the development of customized bone implants using additive manufacturing with PEEK and PEKK polymers, optimizing their biocompatibility and surface adhesion capacity. The project aims to reduce the affected area through the use of precise surgical guides.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Development and characterization of biomaterials and biobased materials