Pictures courtesy of Matichon.

 

A Thai medical team has achieved a national first with the introduction of personalised 3D-printed titanium technology to treat patients with cleft lip and palate. The innovation was unveiled at Naresuan University Hospital in Phitsanulok, where doctors from the Centre for Craniofacial Development, Faculty of Medicine, have successfully carried out surgery using customised implants.

 

The project, highlighted under the theme “Restoring Smiles, Restoring Quality of Life”, is the result of collaboration between government bodies, academia and the private sector. Deputy Governor of Phitsanulok, Nisit Sawasdee Thep, attended the press conference, alongside representatives from the Red Cross Society, Naresuan University, the Phitsanulok Provincial Administrative Organisation and medical technology firm Meticuly Co., Ltd.

 

Associate Professor Dr. Saran Worasakwutiphong, Director of the Centre, explained that the event aimed to raise awareness of new academic advances in cleft lip and palate surgery. “By introducing patient-specific 3D-printed titanium surgical guides and implants, we have become the first medical institution in Thailand to offer this treatment,” he said. “This reflects the strength of collaboration among doctors, multidisciplinary teams and our partners across both the public and private sectors.”

 

The centre, renamed “Phatthanalak Centre” by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, focuses on craniofacial anomalies. The name symbolises “a centre which cultivates good character and growth”.

 

The breakthrough involves orthognathic surgery, developed by the centre’s researchers in partnership with Meticuly. Using advanced tools such as the mobile 3D CT scanner MobiiScan, surgeons are able to reconstruct jawbones with greater precision, improving both function and appearance.

 

At the press conference, 21-year-old patient Phasin Thaongern shared his experience. Having undergone surgery in early August, he reported improved chewing, clearer speech and a new sense of confidence. “It feels like cosmetic surgery,” he said. “I’m more confident now and daily life is easier.”

 

The success has been hailed as a milestone for Thai medical science, positioning Naresuan University Hospital as a leader in craniofacial innovation. Doctors emphasised that continued research and cross-sector support will be key to expanding access to this life-changing technology for patients nationwide.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-09-04

 

 

 

Great use of technology! Good, positive news.