Fusion Implants, a spin-out from the University of Liverpool, has developed a surgical implant to cure lameness and restore mobility in dogs.

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The business which launched in 2013 produces veterinary implants using the latest 3D printing techniques. The Liverpool-based team, have devised a way to manufacture high-performance implants from titanium using 3D printing, or additive manufacturing as it is also known.

Their new device, for use in canine knee reconstructions, is already being sold to veterinary practices nationally and the company is now focusing on expansion plans across Europe, Australia and the US.

The company received a six-figure investment from The North West Fund for Venture Capital and has used the funding to roll out its existing product, employ a design engineer and finance new product development. 

The process for manufacturing and fitting the device is so innovative that Fusion Implants will not sell  products to vets without them undergoing a training programme.

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“We hold regular sessions for vets," said Dr Jones. "We teach them how to use the app we have developed to plan their operations and we take them through a number of practical demonstrations.

“Already more than 250 successful operations have been carried out and we are expanding into Europe, Australia and the US. Finance from The North West Fund has allowed us to launch our product, drive sales and grow our business.”

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Fusion Implants has already demonstrated strong growth nationally and the company hopes to claim a slice of a market worth around $1.32 billion in the US alone. It also believes the process can be applied more widely to veterinary surgery and is exploring other common problems that could benefit from this process.

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This case study was drafted in 2017. For further information and the latest updates from our portfolio businesses, please visit our news pages. 

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