Fraunhofer Research Institution for Individualized and Cell-Based Medical Engineering
Customized Medical Technology – Rethought Layer by Layer
At Fraunhofer IMTE, additive manufacturing is used to develop patient-specific models, implants, and prototypes. The platform enables highly integrated solutions for prevention, diagnostics, therapy, rehabilitation and training.
At Fraunhofer IMTE, additive manufacturing – also known as 3D printing – is used as a key technology for customization in medical technology. Through continuous technological advancements, the additive manufacturing platform has become the central point of contact for application-oriented research and complex prototype development in the region. The focus is on medical applications, particularly patient-specific solutions.
The production of highly integrated, custom components enables the implementation of medical technology solutions that would be difficult to achieve with conventional methods. Combined with three-dimensional imaging data – such as from CT, MRI, or ultrasound – diagnoses can be directly translated into personalized models that support precise therapy planning and implementation. For example, anatomically realistic phantoms are created for training on surgical robotic systems, as well as anatomical models for product development and approval procedures.
Additionally, the technology is used in the patient-specific production of implants and surgical instruments. Future applications – such as the use of bioprinting for manufacturing artificial organs for pharmacological research – are also being advanced in preliminary research at IMTE.
The platform combines cutting-edge infrastructure, interdisciplinary expertise, and application-oriented research, making a significant contribution to the accelerated development of innovative medical technology solutions.