In Israel, a professor discussed the challenges of performing standard surgery to replace an ankle joint due to the lower bone being completely destroyed. The medical team was forced to think creatively about alternative solutions for Yuri, who required the innovative procedure.
The idea of 3D printing an entire joint system was proposed as a potential solution, which had never been attempted in Israel before. After confirming the feasibility of the procedure with a laboratory, Yuri was offered this groundbreaking surgery.
In Italy, a customized 3D printed ankle joint system was created for Yuri based on data obtained from a CT scan of his living leg. Special equipment was also printed to fit his bone structure, allowing for precise cutting of the tibia and insertion of the implant to replace the upper part of the ankle joint.
Yuri’s surgery was considered innovative in the world of medicine, with few comparable cases having been performed. The professor described consulting with experts from New York who were amazed by the innovative approach used in Yuri’s case. Researchers note that advancements in technology have made complex surgeries like this more achievable, leading to increased success rates and improved patient recovery times.
Following four weeks after successful completion of his surgery, doctors will remove his cast and begin rehabilitation and physical therapy process for Yuri. The medical team is hopeful that Yuri’s ankle functionality will be fully restored soon enough to allow him to walk without assistance. Yuri is also optimistic about his recovery and expressed hope for relief from pain he has been experiencing during his journey towards regaining full health again.