3D printed porous scaffold structures can promote bone growth in patients

The startup FossiLabs, based in the U.S., develops FDM 3D printers capable of producing medical implants made from PEEK. These high-performance implants resemble bone-like structures and can promote bone growth in patients with musculoskeletal disorders. Combining the properties of PEEK with a 3D printing solution that can engineer porous structures is the innovative idea behind FossiLabs. In order to learn more about the company and how it is aiming to offer new solutions for the medical sector, we met Todd Reith, the Founder of the company. So, can 3D printed porous scaffold be a viable solution for musculoskeletal disorders?

3DN: Can you tell us more about yourself and your relationship with 3D printing?

I am a true entrepreneur who, over time, has become an expert in multiple disciplines. I started out in software development, creating some of the first online web banking applications, pharmaceutical database applications, and early artificial intelligence (AI) logic for target marketing applications. I then focused on designing headless guitars with high-tech carbon fiber components and custom electronics, including piezo sensors. The guitar business evolved to designing and manufacturing custom mother of peal inlay designs for other guitar manufactures and their respective artist instruments. My manufacturing path lead me to developing metal components and eventually machining fuel and shock components for Team Penske’s Indy Car Racing Team. Eventually I became involved with medical device implants.

I initially had no interest with 3D printing. It was just a toy that made useless plastic trinkets. By random chance, a co-worker asked me to help him troubleshoot and fix his 3D printer. Frustrated with the poorly made piece of equipment and software interface, I stated to my co-worker, I could make a better machine. I was sucked into the craze of additive machining. I obsessively researched and absorbed all the information I could find. Three months later, I built my first high-temperature 3D printer. After 3 distinctly different businesses, FossiLabs, ties in all my past acquired skills. It is very exciting to be able to use all the disciplines I have perfected over the past 20+ years.