11:01, 08 December 2025

Russia Develops Custom 3D-Printed Implants for Head and Neck Cancer Patients

Russia has developed patient‑specific 3D‑printed implants for head and neck oncology, marking a breakthrough in reconstructive surgery and additive medical manufacturing

A Fully Personalized Approach to Reconstruction

A Russian technology for producing individualized polymer implants for maxillofacial surgery has won the inaugural national Leaders of Form Award in the category Best Additive Medicine Project. Developed by researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) and the Tomsk National Research Medical Center’s Oncology Institute, the solution has already been used in six patients with head‑and‑neck cancers, offering new possibilities for reconstructive care both in Russia and globally.

The technology enables lightweight, biocompatible implants made from fluorinated polymer powders on a 3D printer. Each implant is modeled exclusively for a specific patient, using their CT data to ensure precise anatomical matching and improved functional and aesthetic outcomes.

A key advantage of the project is its fully domestic production cycle: from synthesizing the polymer powder to final quality control performed on Russian equipment. The implants remain compatible with radiation therapy and support accelerated rehabilitation.

Building the Next Generation of Implants

“We are developing a new generation of implants with a focus on a complete technological cycle,” said Evgeny Bolbasov, Acting Head of the Additive Technologies Center at TPU. “Thanks to our clinical partners, we accelerated the refinement of unique methods that will help real patients in the future and contribute to improving access to high‑tech medical care.”

According to Denis Kulbakin, Head of the Head and Neck Tumor Department at the Oncology Institute, 3D technologies are central to improving postoperative results.

“We actively use 3D technologies to achieve better outcomes and faster rehabilitation. We are now studying surface modification of implants by coating them with bioactive, antibacterial materials,” he said.

Recognition and National Impact

The technology has been patented, successfully clinically tested, and recognized at the federal level. Its development is supported by the Priority‑2030 program and is implemented at the Additive Technologies Center established with the participation of Rosatom State Corporation. Winning a national award backed by the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade highlights the country’s leadership in medical additive manufacturing.

The breakthrough demonstrates how advanced materials and precise engineering can transform reconstructive oncology — reducing treatment time, improving recovery, and giving surgeons tools that were previously unavailable.

Medicine and healthcare