Description
In this session, Alex Liddle discusses the journey and challenges of orthopedic implant design as he nears the end of his presidency at BOTA. He reflects on the necessity for innovation in implants, drawing on personal experiences from his involvement in the development of several successful implants, including the cementless Oxford knee and the H1 ceramic hip resurfacing. Liddle analyzes the evolution of orthopedic innovation over the years, contrasting the past era—when inventors like John Charnley and Smith-Petersen could test new materials and concepts directly on patients—with today’s more cautious and regulatory-driven environment. He emphasizes the benefits yielded by innovation, such as improved fixation methods, reduced wear, and advances in surgical techniques.
Moreover, Liddle outlines the process of implant innovation, discussing the importance of having good ideas and finding supportive collaboration, as well as detailing the journey from conceptualization to market, including challenges related to funding and medical regulations. He showcases his current project with Osstec, where they aim to create additively manufactured implants designed to be stiffness-matched to bone, improving patient outcomes through better ingrowth and longevity of the implant. Liddle concludes by acknowledging the regulatory hurdles and shifts in pathways for getting implants approved in the market today. Throughout his talk, he conveys the satisfaction and excitement of innovation, encouraging orthopedic surgeons to engage actively in improving patient care through novel solutions.