Osteopore and Tan Tock Seng Hospital Partner to Develop Novel 3D‑Printed Implant for Avascular Necrosis
Date: 23 February 2026
Project Overview
Australian‑Singaporean regenerative medicine company Osteopore Limited (ASX: OSX), a global leader in 3D‑printed biomimetic and bioresorbable implants, has announced a strategic collaboration with Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH). The partnership aims to co‑develop an innovative implant for the treatment of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip joint.
Funding & Leadership
- Grant: Approximately SGD 280,000 (~AUD 315,000) from the National Health Innovation Centre Singapore (NHIC).
- Lead Investigator: Dr. Michael Yam Gui Jie, Consultant in Orthopaedic Surgery and Clinical Director of TTSH’s Medical 3D Printing Centre.
Background & Previous Milestones
The collaboration builds on an earlier intramural seeding fund awarded through NHG Health’s Centre for Medical Technologies & Innovations (CMTi) MedTech Grant. That initial funding enabled preliminary tests and proof‑of‑concept studies, which are now progressing toward a minimal viable product (MVP) suitable for larger‑scale human trials.
Technical Approach
Osteopore will contribute its design and manufacturing expertise to the development team led by Dr. Yam. In turn, Dr. Yam will provide clinical needs identification and user validation. The 18‑month project exemplifies how NHG Health supports clinician‑led medtech innovation that translates cutting‑edge technology into real‑world clinical applications.
Clinical Significance of AVN
Avascular necrosis is a condition where blood supply to bone tissue is interrupted, leading to bone death. While it can affect various joints, the hip joint is most commonly involved. Untreated AVN may progress to bone collapse, necessitating total hip replacement (THR). Approximately 10% of AVN cases ultimately require THR.
Market Opportunity
The global market for AVN treatment is projected to reach USD 10.2 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.5% between 2023 and 2030. Key growth drivers include increasing prevalence, heightened awareness, and earlier diagnosis.
Executive Commentary
CEO Dr. Yujing Lim: “We are very encouraged by the strong interest in developing a regenerative implant to treat avascular necrosis—a debilitating condition that not only causes pain but also leads to total hip replacement in 10% of cases.”
Dr. Michael Yam: “3D customised implants will be the future of personalised healthcare. These innovations will allow us to move beyond one‑size‑fits‑all solutions and create implants specifically designed for individual patients, potentially reducing complications and enhancing long‑term outcomes.”
Contact Information
- Dr. Yujing Lim, Chief Executive Officer – lim_yujing@osteopore.com
- Mark Leong, Executive Chairman – mark_leong@osteopore.com
About Osteopore Limited
Founded in Singapore and listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, Osteopore Ltd. commercialises products that enable natural bone healing across multiple therapeutic areas. Its patented technology fabricates micro‑structured scaffolds for bone regeneration through 3D printing and bioresorbable materials, reducing post‑surgery complications associated with permanent implants.
Related Topics
- Avascular Necrosis Treatment Options
- 3D‑Printed Bone Implants: Technology & Benefits
- Orthopaedic Surgery Innovations in 2026
- MedTech Market Trends and Forecasts
- Bioresorbable Implant Research and Development
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