Overview
- UC San Diego Health says the July 2025 operation was led by neurosurgeon Dr. Joseph Osorio at the institution’s spine program.
- Detailed imaging informed AI-assisted planning to create a one-off implant that was 3D printed in medical‑grade titanium.
- The patient-specific device departs from standard one-size-fits-all hardware by matching the spine’s dimensions to support precise alignment.
- Clinicians expect customization to reduce complications, lessen pain, and shorten recovery, though these benefits await broader validation and follow-up data.
- UC San Diego leaders present the case as a step toward routinely individualized implants across spine, hip, and knee procedures.