3D printing technologies carry the promise of revolutionizing the quality and efficiency of healthcare. However, the required technologies, even when available, are currently too fragmented to be integrated into routine, affordable and streamlined solutions that can benefit a large number of patients. The 3DMed consortium was organized to make joint efforts to change the situation and advance the state of the art. The project aims to improve affordability and large-scale accessibility of medical treatment using 3D printed devices. This aim is now being achieved by increasing the technology readiness level (TRL) of the state-of-the-art 3D printing technologies for medical applications and integrating them into a streamlined, fast, cost-effective software platform for use in routine clinical practice. The three main objectives being achieved are: (i) streamlining and integration: to streamline the various steps of the 3D manufacturing process and integrate the data flows with pre-planning and post-operatory evaluation; (ii) technology development: to advance the TRL of metallic, composite and polymeric 3D printed medical devices; (iii) validation: to demonstrate the superior performance and ascertain the clinical benefits of the 3D printed medical devices developed in 3DMed.

The project started as planned. Its initiation phase was successfully completed with a mandatory milestone review report delivered. While five outputs (data transfer protocols, software platform, functionalised, 3D printable implants, six demonstrators and two clinical trials) are not scheduled for the current reporting period, all the activities in work packages 1-7 have taken place towards these outputs. Based on extensive literature studies and market research, six demonstrators have been chosen, i.e., (i) transtibial socket, (ii) scoliosis brace, (iii) hand brace, (vi) cast replacement, (v) trocar and (vi) vitrectome. Preparation for two clinical trials to validate the clinical benefits of 3D printed surgical instruments has started through collaboration with an observer partner. Extensive cross-border activities have brought huge benefits to the project partners and eventually to the target groups. The first milestone (Regulatory environment mapped) was achieved with a milestone report and an annex. 13 deliverables have been completed. Two regional dissemination workshops have been held on the French and Dutch territories. The project is on track.