Obstacles for accessing customised craniofacial implants in low- and middle-income countries

Area of Science:

• Medical Technology Transfer
• Global Health Equity

Background:

• Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) lack access to advanced medical technologies.
• High-tech solutions, such as customized medical implants, are underutilized in resource-limited settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility of transferring customized medical implant technology to LMICs.
• To identify barriers and facilitators for implementing advanced medical solutions in low-resource environments.

Main Methods:

• Internet research on digital infrastructure (internet, email, devices) in LMICs.
• Searched for patient-specific implant (PSI) concepts and emerging technologies in craniomaxillofacial surgery.
• Assessed availability of CT scanners and smartphones in LMICs.

Main Results:

• Limited internet penetration, low access to computers/smartphones, and scarce radiology services in LMICs.
• Lack of knowledge regarding import regulations and customs clearance impedes implant accessibility.
• Acquiring appropriate training and instrumentation presents significant challenges.

Conclusions:

• Significant difficulties exist in transferring high-tech medical solutions to LMICs.
• Persistence and well-structured programs are necessary for successful implementation.
• Addressing infrastructure, regulatory, and training gaps is vital for improving patient-specific implant accessibility.