When your furry patient needs more than an off-the-shelf fix, these five pioneers are redefining what's possible in veterinary orthopedics.
The Rise of Tailored Titanium
Veterinary orthopedics is undergoing a quiet revolution. Gone are the days when a dog's broken leg or a cat's joint deformity meant settling for a generic implant that might not fit perfectly. Today, advanced imaging, 3D modeling, and titanium printing are converging to create patient-specific solutions that promise better outcomes and faster recoveries. This shift isn't just about technology—it's about a fundamental change in how we approach animal care, treating each pet as an individual with unique anatomy. For veterinary surgeons, this means tackling cases that were once considered impossible, from complex fractures to bone tumors, with a level of precision that rivals human medicine. As you explore these innovators, you'll see how they're turning cutting-edge science into practical tools for your practice.
How We Evaluated the Field
To bring you this list, we looked at each company's service scope, the clarity of their offerings, and how well they fit into a modern veterinary practice. We considered the range of implants and guides they provide, the materials they use, and how they communicate their value to surgeons. We also weighed their accessibility—whether they're a global player or a specialized niche provider—and how they support the surgical workflow from CT scan to implantation. Each business brings something unique to the table, and we've highlighted what stood out for each, so you can find the right partner for your specific needs.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five custom implant providers we're featuring, so you can see at a glance what each one offers.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Movora (Vimian) | Complex joint replacements and large-scale production |
| OrthopetX | Surgeons seeking a dedicated partner for patient-specific implants |
| Bio3Dtech | A comprehensive range of custom orthopedic solutions |
| Limes Vet | Educational resources and accessible custom implant solutions |
| RVC Limb Salvage | Limb salvage procedures backed by academic expertise |
The Innovators: A Closer Look
#1 Movora (Vimian)
A screenshot of the Movora (Vimian) website.
Movora, part of the Vimian group, is a trailblazer in bringing 3D printing to veterinary medicine, with a focus on hip, elbow, and ankle implants for companion animals. They were among the first to print these from titanium alloy, and their success stories include a miniature horse named Duncan who received a 3D-printed hip replacement. Their implants are designed to meet patient-specific clinical problems that standard products can't handle, and the 3D printing process minimizes waste by using only the exact amount of material needed. This makes them a strong choice for complex cases that require a high degree of customization. Their global reach and established track record make them a reliable partner for veterinary surgeons.
#2 OrthopetX
A screenshot of the OrthopetX website.
OrthopetX is a specialized, early-stage business that's making waves with custom titanium 3D-printed implants and surgical guides for pets. They use CT scans and advanced software to design each implant to the animal's exact anatomy, ensuring a precise fit that can reduce surgical time and improve recovery. Their focus on complex fractures, joint deformities, and bone tumors positions them as a go-to for challenging cases. They emphasize that your pet deserves the same level of innovation as any human patient, which resonates with pet owners and surgeons alike. While they're newer to the scene, their commitment to precision and care is evident in their approach.
#3 Bio3Dtech
A screenshot of the Bio3Dtech website.
Bio3Dtech is a veterinary engineering company that offers a wide range of custom solutions, including implants, surgical guides, anatomical bones, and orthotics. They use advanced CAD-CAE systems and 3D printing with titanium (Ti6Al4V) and PEEK materials, giving them flexibility in implant design. Their implants feature lattice and porous structures that encourage rapid bone growth, and they emphasize geometry freedom and easy installation. They also provide a platform for uploading DICOM files, making it straightforward for surgeons to start a case. With a focus on 'Think SIMPLE – Act FAST – Do PRECISE,' they're a practical choice for complex orthopedic cases.
#4 Limes Vet
A screenshot of the Limes Vet website.
Limes Vet is a provider of custom 3D veterinary implants and surgical guides, and they offer a detailed comparison of 3D-printed versus traditional implants on their blog. They highlight the advantages of customization and precision, noting that 3D-printed implants fit precisely and reduce postoperative complications. They also address the challenges, such as high investment costs and technical complexity, which is helpful for clinics considering this technology. Their approach is educational, aiming to make 3D printing accessible to smaller veterinary clinics through specialist providers. This makes them a valuable resource for surgeons who are new to custom implants.
#5 RVC Limb Salvage
A screenshot of the RVC Limb Salvage website.
The Royal Veterinary College's Limb Salvage service is a pioneer in using 3D printing for veterinary orthopedics, with a case study dating back to 2016. They successfully saved a mastiff's limb by creating a custom-made plate and titanium spacer from CT scans, demonstrating the potential of this technology. Their process involves sending digital CT images to an external company for 3D printing, and they produce models within 48 hours. This service is part of a larger referral hospital, offering a multidisciplinary approach to complex cases. For surgeons seeking a trusted academic institution for limb salvage, RVC is a solid option.
Choosing Your Custom Implant Partner
When you're deciding which custom implant provider to work with, start by considering the types of cases you handle most. If you're dealing with complex joint replacements, a company like Movora with a proven track record might be your best bet. For a more personalized, early-stage partner that's deeply focused on patient-specific solutions, OrthopetX could be the right fit. Think about the range of services you need—do you want just implants, or also surgical guides and orthotics? Bio3Dtech offers a broad spectrum. If you're new to 3D printing, Limes Vet's educational resources can help you get up to speed. And for limb salvage cases that require a multidisciplinary team, RVC's academic setting provides a unique advantage. Also, consider the workflow: how easy is it to upload CT scans and communicate with the engineering team? Finally, look at the materials they use and whether they offer options like PEEK in addition to titanium. Your choice should align with your practice's needs and your comfort level with the technology.
Streamlining the Workflow
The process of getting a custom implant is becoming more streamlined, thanks to digital workflows. Typically, you start by performing a CT scan of your patient and uploading the DICOM files to the provider's platform, as seen with Bio3Dtech. The provider then uses advanced software to create a 3D model of the bone, which is used to design the implant and surgical guides. This model can be sent back to you for review, and in some cases, a physical 3D-printed model is produced for surgical planning, as RVC does. Once the design is approved, the implant is printed in titanium or PEEK, often within days. This automation reduces manual errors and saves surgical time, allowing you to focus on the procedure itself. Some providers, like Movora, emphasize the efficiency of 3D printing with minimal waste, making the process both precise and sustainable.
The Future is Custom
As you've seen, the world of veterinary orthopedics is moving toward a future where every implant is as unique as the animal it's designed for. Whether you choose a global leader like Movora, a dedicated newcomer like OrthopetX, or a specialized academic service like RVC, the goal is the same: better outcomes for your patients. These five innovators are leading the charge, each with their own strengths and specialties. By embracing custom 3D-printed solutions, you're not just keeping up with the times—you're providing the best possible care for the animals that depend on you. So, take a closer look at these providers, and find the one that fits your practice best. Your patients will thank you.