Cutting-edge 3D printed joint replacement technology set for launch, following successful £2.5m fundraising by OSSTEC
In a groundbreaking development, London-based start-up OSSTEC has raised £2.5 million in funding for its innovative 3D printing technology in joint replacement implants. This technology, led by specialist DeepTech VC Empirical Ventures, is expected to revolutionise the field of orthopaedics, particularly for osteoarthritis patients.
The latest advancements in 3D printed knee joint replacement implants include customised, laser 3D-printed total knee implants, enhanced implant materials, and integration with robotic and minimally invasive surgical techniques. These advancements offer improved anatomical fit, durability, and faster recovery with less post-operative pain.
Dr. Alex Liddle, MBBS, BSc, DPhil, FRCS (Orth), the Chief Medical Officer at OSSTEC, stated that OSSTEC's 3D printing technology eliminates mechanisms of failure seen in previous cementless knee replacements. The company's first product, developed with a world-leading team of surgeons, applies this technology in less invasive knee implants to stimulate bone growth.
In March 2025, researchers from Naton Biotechnology developed the world's first laser 3D-printed total knee implant, marking a significant innovation in tailoring implants precisely to patient anatomy. Advances in implant materials and 3D printing methods facilitate producing cementless, durable, and porous implants that encourage bone integration and long-term fixation.
The use of robotic-assisted surgery combined with laser technology further enhances the precision of implant placement, reduces soft tissue damage, and accelerates recovery—patients often walk immediately after surgery and have shorter hospital stays. Minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques integrated with 3D printed implants reduce permanent pain and enable quicker functional recovery.
Emerging trends also include multi-material printing and bioprinting for even more advanced implant customisation and functionality. This technology is expected to significantly reduce the risk of implant failure or complications and allow patients to stay active, pain-free, and enjoy an improved quality of life.
Dr. Liddle's statement suggests that this is an exciting new development in orthopaedics, promising improved fixation and reduced risks. OSSTEC claims this technology will operate more efficiently, saving thousands on treatment costs and treating more patients in a timely manner.
Osteoarthritis causes chronic pain for billions of people worldwide, with 1.3 million knee replacement surgeries performed globally each year. This new development is particularly significant for the 450,000 young patients who face a high risk of failure and revision surgery (35%).
Max Munford, OSSTEC's CEO and Founder, stated that the funding will allow them to bring their groundbreaking technology to market and engage in strategic collaborations to improve patient outcomes. The latest funding round remains open for further investment, indicating a promising future for this revolutionary technology in the medical field.
- Technology in the field of medical-conditions, such as osteoarthritis, is being revolutionized through advancements in digital health and 3D printing by start-ups like OSSTEC, with the aim of improving health-and-wellness outcomes for patients.
- This new 3D printing technology, specifically in knee joint replacement implants, is expected to offer enhanced implant durability, precision in implant placement, and improved anatomical fit, all contributing to faster recovery and less post-operative pain.
- With the use of innovative technology, such as robotic-assisted surgery and 3D printing, the risk of implant failure or complications is significantly reduced, allowing patients to remain active and enjoy an improved quality of life.
