When addressing highly complex orthopaedic cases, the difference lies not only in the patient-specific implant itself. The real challenge begins long before surgery, in the ability to transform a unique clinical situation into a planned, collaborative, and controlled treatment pathway.
This is the philosophy behind ProMade, Enovis patient-specific design service developed to support surgeons in the management of complex anatomies. Through close collaboration between clinical, engineering, and manufacturing teams, ProMade helps transform highly challenging cases into customized solutions designed to restore function and mobility. ProMade is a bespoke design service dedicated to developing custom-made implants for the treatment of the most complex clinical cases, helping patients rediscover the emotion of movement.
To better understand what lies behind a patient-specific solution, we gathered insights from Antonino Scala, Product Development Manager Upper Extremities, and Federico Leandrin, Product Development Manager Hip & Knee and ProMade US. Their perspectives highlight a key point: the true value resides not only in the final device, but in the process that makes it possible.
One of the strongest themes emerging from the interviews is the importance of collaboration between clinical and engineering expertise. The design phase is far more than converting a CT scan into a 3D model. It requires understanding the patient's clinical history, evaluating the quality and reliability of the remaining bone stock, identifying fixation opportunities, and defining the most appropriate pathway for each individual case.
It is precisely at this stage that surgeon-engineer collaboration becomes most valuable.
Indeed, similar anatomies do not necessarily require the same solution. Previous revisions, soft-tissue quality, available bone for fixation, and clinical objectives can all influence the direction of the project. Through this continuous exchange of information, a solution takes shape by integrating clinical needs, biomechanical considerations, and manufacturing feasibility.
When severe bone loss or highly deformed anatomy is involved, collaborative planning becomes even more critical.
This approach enables complexity to be addressed in a structured manner, identifying potential challenges early and evaluating different options before surgery takes place.
Supporting the surgeon goes beyond the implant itself. A range of dedicated tools is developed to help translate the plan into surgical practice.
The result is a process in which technology, expertise, and collaboration converge toward a common goal: supporting surgeons in managing the most challenging cases through a strategy that is clearly defined, aligned, and tailored to the individual patient.
Technology, experience, and specialized expertise are all essential elements. Yet, what stands out most from these interviews is the value of collaboration between surgeons and engineers working together to address cases where standard solutions may not be sufficient. This shared approach helps transform highly complex anatomies into patient spcific treatment pathways, with the ultimate goal of restoring movement, function, and quality of life.
The conversation continues in the next edition of the newsletter, where we will explore the management of complex anatomies, patient-specific instruments, and the future of personalized orthopaedic surgery.