According to a press release from the University, the researchers used a vat photopolymerisation technique to produce custom-made pieces for each patient, using a liquid resin that solidifies upon exposure to light.

The goal is to create "pieces tailored to each patient, taking into account the specific characteristics of the bone to be replaced, with a solid structure that has a shape very close to the bone prosthesis needed for each clinical case."

The project used hydroxyapatite suspended in a water-based resin to mimic human bone mineral and allow the production of complex structures adapted to each clinical case.

Using water-based reduced the use of organic compounds by approximately 80 percent and shortened the final production phase by about 60 percent.

“The next steps in the process involve evaluating the biological behaviour of the material and conducting advanced tests to ensure the safety and efficacy of the solutions before clinical application,” the statement explains.

The work involved Simão Santos and Manuel Alves, doctoral students, and professors Susana Olhero and Georgina Miranda from the Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering.