The Medical Officer Dr Asim Balgami has claimed that Aga Khan Hospital has introduced Pakistan’s first and so far only 3D unit for creating artificial human bone implants.
During a groundbreaking development, Led by Medical Officer Dr Asim Balgami, the facility received approval from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) and has already conducted 14 successful implant surgeries.
Speaking to Independent Urdu, Dr Asim Balgami stated, “Traditionally, bone replacements for areas like the skull, jaw, or face required transplanting bone from another part of the body, which could result in a non-ideal fit, while the other option of imported bone implants is available, but they are costly and not always fully compatible.”
“This new 3D unit at Aga Khan addresses these issues by creating implants using polyether ether ketone (PEK), a lightweight, durable material approved in several countries, including the United States,” he added.
Dr Balgami explained that PEK bones are currently used for cranial and maxillofacial surgeries, offering a more affordable, customized solution compared to imported alternatives.
Patients have shown significant improvement in recovery and quality of life with these implants.
The hospital’s team, including neurosurgery expert Dr Shahzad Shamim, highlights that these 3D implants enhance surgical precision and integrate well with the body, leading to faster healing.
Meanwhile, plans are underway to expand the use of these implants for more complex surgeries, as Aga Khan Hospital aims to set a new standard in bone reconstruction and improve patient outcomes across Pakistan.
