How 3D Printing and Personalized Medicine Transformed a Patient's Life | The Medical City

Cookies

This website uses cookies, which may include third party cookies, to improve your browsing experience and in order to allow you to set your individual preferences for present and future use of the site. To find out more, read our Privacy Policy. By clicking “I agree“, you agree to our use of cookies.

COVID-19 Online Screening Tool: Answer on your smartphones or computers within 24 hours prior to your visit to The Medical City.

How 3D Printing and Personalized Medicine Transformed a Patient's Life

By The Medical City (TMC), Ortigas | May 09, 2025

How 3D Printing and Personalized Medicine Transformed a Patient's Life

The Medical City successfully performed a personalized 3D-printed cranial reconstruction to restore a patient’s skull after traumatic brain injury, showcasing innovation in precision surgery.

In September 2023, a patient suffered a workplace accident that led to a life-altering injury and a long journey toward recovery. Left with a traumatic brain injury, he underwent a 3D-printed cranial reconstruction at The Medical City in January 2025 —a surgical innovation that helped restore the shape of his skull and gave him a renewed sense of normalcy. 

A Personal Fit for a Better Recovery

The patient was electrocuted while changing a lightbulb, resulting in severe brain trauma. To relieve pressure caused by internal bleeding, doctors performed an emergency craniectomy — a surgical procedure where a portion of the skull is temporarily removed to allow a swelling brain to expand without being compressed.

While the craniectomy saved his life, it left a section of his skull missing, creating both cosmetic and protective challenges. Years later, the patient returned for cranial reconstruction to restore the skull's original shape and function.

In the past, doctors used materials like metal plates or bone grafts to repair such defects, but these options sometimes resulted in complications such as infection, heat sensitivity, or discomfort. 

3D-printed PEEK cranial implant, custom-fit for patient-specific reconstruction.

At TMC, the patient was given a 3D-printed PEEK cranial implant. It is a custom-made medical device created using advanced imaging and 3D-printing technology. PEEK stands for polyether ether ketone, a biocompatible, durable plastic that mimics the properties of human bone. It is lightweight, strong, and does not conduct heat or cold, which makes it more comfortable than traditional metal implants.

Using detailed CT scans of his head, a team of doctors and biomedical engineers designed an implant shaped precisely to match the missing portion of the patient’s skull. This personalized approach allowed for a better fit, minimized surgical risks, and improved healing.

3D Skull design implant for the patient.

The implant used in this case was made and generously donated by ProtoMed Singapore, a company dedicated to producing patient-specific implants for cranial and maxillofacial applications using 3D printing technology. William Chia and Aravinda Jayawardhana, both Sales and Operations Directors, and Cindy Tan, Finance Director, represented ProtoMed in supporting this milestone case.

A Smooth Recovery and a Fresh Start


Dr. Jerold Justo and medical team performing 3D-printed cranial reconstruction.

The surgery, led by Dr. Jerold Justo, along with Dr. John Dy, Dr. Jec Eustaquio, and Dr. Michelle Luciano, was a success. By practicing personalized medicine and looking after the patients' unique needs, the surgical team was able to significantly reduce operative time, lower risks associated with longer procedures, and promote faster recovery. He recovered well with no complications and was soon able to return to his home province of Aklan. Today, he has resumed his normal activities and is doing well.

“This technology has made a huge difference in how we do surgeries, reducing operative times and improving the patient’s recovery and ultimately, their quality of life,” said Dr. Justo. “It’s exciting to see how we can use innovation to improve and personalize patient care.” 

The Future of 3D-Printed Surgery


Before (upper left) and after (lower left and right) photos showing the successful outcome of the procedure.

Looking ahead, Dr. Justo shared that this technology holds promise for broader applications, including patient education, bone reconstruction in orthopedic and ENT (ear, nose, and throat) surgeries, and even simulations in complex cases.

This project was made possible by TMC’s Clinical and Translational Research Institute, led by Dr. Raul V. Destura and Dr. Roland G. Remenyi, head of CTRI’s Biomedical Research Unit. The collaboration with ProtoMed Singapore was facilitated by Eleanor Olegario of Lithos Manufacturing, who learned about TMC’s ongoing research at the Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference organized by the Philippine subsidiary of the Leave a Nest group. Olegario's association with Protomed started in May 2023 with a medical and building mission hosted by Lithos Manufacturing in a remote community in Mangatarem, Pangasinan, with the Singaporeans as volunteers.

By adopting technologies such as 3D printing for patient-specific implants, TMC strengthens its leadership in personalized, precision-based treatment for better patient outcomes and quality of life. 

For more information about The Medical City’s services, visit www.themedicalcity.com. 

Share

facebook icon share twitter icon share linkedin icon share mail icon share icon