Technology Transfer
Licensing opportunities
Implantable 3d scaffold for auricle reconstruction
– Applications
- Reconstruction of the auricle following conditions such as microtia.
- Repair of the auricle after trauma.
– Key Benefits
- Multi-material design mimicking natural tissues.
- Optimized mechanical properties compared to HDPE scaffolds.
- Patient-specific process based on laser scans.
- Reduced surgical complications compared to autologous cartilage implantation.
- High versatility and reproducibility through 3D printing technology.
– Offer
- Licensing out.
- Co-Development
Invention
Implantable and biocompatible 3d scaffold for auricle reconstruction.
Background
Surgical removal of the auricle, whether due to trauma or tumor excision, often leaves visible disfigurement that can deeply affect a patient's self-image and social confidence. Auricular reconstruction is therefore essential: it restores the natural contour of the ear, reduces the aesthetic impact of the loss, and helps patients regain a sense of
wholeness. Beyond the cosmetic result, this procedure plays a key role in psychological recovery, improving self-esteem and quality of life after a traumatic event.
Technology
The scaffold is manufactured using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology, employing CAD models derived from laser scans of healthy auricles. The process has been optimized through reverse engineering, enabling a patient-specific structure. The mechanical properties of the scaffold, achieved through the combined use of TPU and PCL, are
comparable to those of natural tissues, with no permanent plastic deformation under compression and torsion. Additionally, the structure is designed for a two-stage surgical procedure: the first for scaffold insertion and the second to adjust the ear’s elevation angle.
Intellectual Property
Rights
Patent granted in Italy. Patent application filed in Europe, USA.
Inventors
Giada Anna Beltramini, Farè Silvia, Elena Capotorto, Licia Chiudaroli, Edoardo Francesco Montrasio.
Contacts
Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan - Italy
ufficiobrevetti@policlinico.mi.it
www.policlinico.mi.it/tto