Pioneering orthognathic surgery for cleft palate with patient-specific 3D-printed implants with Naresuan University

Meticuly is deeply honoured to announce a landmark collaboration with the Pattanaluk Craniofacial Centre at Naresuan University, marking a significant advancement in the treatment of adult patients with cleft lip and palate in Thailand. The centre was royally bestowed its name by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, with ‘Pattanaluk’ meaning ‘a centre for the enhancement of noble features.’ It serves as a central hub for the multidisciplinary treatment and rehabilitation of patients with cleft lip, palate, and craniofacial deformities, adhering to the highest international standards.

This partnership has successfully integrated patient specific implants (PSI), created with 3D printing, into complex orthognathic surgery for adult patients, setting a new standard for precision and patient care. The initiative represents a fundamental shift in surgical philosophy, moving from adapting a patient to fit a pre-made device, to creating a bespoke solution that is perfectly tailored to the individual. To date, nine patients have successfully undergone this revolutionary procedure.

A new era of precision in cleft care

Adult patients with cleft lip and palate often face complex structural challenges, requiring highly specialised orthognathic surgery. Meticuly’s 3D printing technology addresses these challenges directly.

By using a patient's own 3D medical scans, our engineers work alongside the surgical team to design and fabricate titanium guides and implants that match the patient's unique anatomy with sub-millimetre accuracy. This advancement enables the surgical team to:

• Plan and operate with greater precision using a Patient-Specific Implant (PSI).

• Reduce surgical and anaesthesia time.

• Lower the risk of complications.

• Help patients recover faster and achieve a better quality of life.

A surgeon's perspective on the impact

The results, driven by PSI technology, have been transformative, not just for the patients, but for the surgical process itself.

"When it comes time for the actual surgery, the custom-made devices increase precision in placing bone cuts and securing the bone in the new, planned position. This reduces surgical and anaesthesia time and lowers the risk of complications. The results are more effective than traditional surgery, increasing patient satisfaction in terms of facial structure, bite, and jaw function. This directly impacts their confidence and creates a better quality of life. To date, we have successfully completed nine surgeries with this method."

— Asst. Prof. Dr. Saran Worasakwutiphong, Acting Director, Pattanaluk Craniofacial Centre

Restoring confidence through personalisation of orthognathic surgery

At the press event announcing this success, Meticuly's leadership, including Asst. Prof. Dr. Chedtha Puncreobutr (CTO) and Ms. Peeranoot Lohwongwatana (COO), were present to affirm the company's commitment to supporting the Thai healthcare sector with its Patient-Specific Implant (PSI) technology.

"The most important goal is to restore confidence and quality of life to patients," stated Dr. Chedtha. "For those who have undergone multiple treatments, accuracy and personalisation are the keys to sustainable success.”

Meticuly remains steadfast in our mission to advance medical 3D printing. We are committed to refining the Patient-Specific Implant (PSI) to support complex procedures like Orthognathic Surgery, raising the standard of care and delivering better outcomes that truly improve the lives of patients across Thailand.